Quaternary subsidence zones in Albania: some case studies

Abstract

The Neotectonic evolution of Albania, from the Middle Pleistocene to the present day, is characterised by a general uplift that began after the Pliocene. Subsidence took place locally and led to the formation of graben-shaped Quaternary lakes and plains. During this period, graben lakes were formed at Shkodra, Ohrid, Prespa and Butrinti, whereas at Korca, Elbasani, Zadrima, Tirana, Myzeqe, etc., graben and graben-like plains were created. The Quaternary subsidence structures can be classified into two groups: graben structures created by local or regional extension and graben-like structures formed under a compressional regime. Some case studies are presented to illustrate the formation of these structures and their main engineering geological and hydrogeological characteristics.