Abstract
Recognition and assessment of sinkholes as geosites: lessons from the Island of Gozo (Malta) There is a wide literature on sinkhole or doline classification, formation and evolution. However, despite the fact that they are often characterised by spectacular morphological features, sinkholes are not normally described as geological resources which might be valuable for the society and worth of being promoted for their geomorphological importance. A series of sinkholes have been investigated in the Island of Gozo (Malta), some of which of notable size and high aesthetic interest. These sinkholes have been assessed applying a methodology which has been specifically set up with the aim of verifying whether any of them could be considered as geosites according to their scientific, additional (ecological, aesthetic, cultural) and use values. The paper shows the geosite assessment procedure and discusses its outputs, according to which 6 out of the 17 investigated sinkholes can be considered as geosites of geomorphological interest (geomorphosites). Finally, issues related to their enhancement and fruition are taken into account in the frame of potential geotourism strategies.
Highlights
Sinkholes or dolines are closed depressions with internal drainage which are typical features of karst landscapes
There is a wide literature on sinkhole classification, formation and evolution (e.g., Williams 2003; Beck 2004; Waltham et al 2005; Ford & Williams 2007; Gutiérrez et al 2008b) and on the possible hazards associated to these karst features (e.g., Buttrick & van Shalkwyk 1998; Cooper & Calow 1998; Paukstys et al 1999; Zhou et al 2003; Gutiérrez et al 2008a; Galve et al 2011)
Features ascribable to sinkholes have often had a great influence in the society: they have played important roles in legends, provided inspiration to writers and appeared in films
Summary
Sinkholes or dolines are closed depressions with internal drainage which are typical features of karst landscapes. Wars Episode III, Revenge of the Sith) Despite their attractiveness and the fact that they are often located in protected areas, sinkholes are not normally described as geological resources which might be valuable for the society, being of interest for visitors and worth of being promoted for their geomorphological characteristics and importance. Geosites of geomorphological interest that show scientific, cultural/historical, aesthetic and/or socio-economic value due to human perception or exploitation are defined as “geomorphosites” (Panizza 2001). Within this frame, during recent geomorphological surveys carried out in the Island of Gozo (Malta), a series of sinkholes have been recognised and mapped in detail with the aim of investigating their evolution, both along the coast and inland (Fig. 1). As regards the Maltese archipelago this issue was previously explored as for the Island of Malta (e.g., Soldati et al 2008a), but this is the first attempt for the Island of Gozo
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