Abstract
The Møns Klint Glaciotectonic Complex (Fig. 1) exposed in the N–S-trending chalk cliff on the east coast of the island of Møn in south-east Denmark is one of the most famous glaciotectonic geosites in the world. People of all nationalities are attracted to the site, which has more than 300 000 visitors per year. Many of them may not realise the uniqueness of the glaciotectonic framework, and are probably more fascinated by the spectacular view of the white cliff and chalk peaks separated by the deep green gorges. However, without the glaciotectonic deformation the cliffs would never have formed. Instead the Cretaceous chalk would still have been resting horizontally below the seabed, covered by glaciofluvial sand, glaciolacustrine clay and clayey till.
Highlights
The Møns Klint Glaciotectonic Complex (Fig. 1) exposed in the N–S-trending chalk cliff on the east coast of the island of Møn in south-east Denmark is one of the most famous glaciotectonic geosites in the world
The exhibition focuses on the geology of Denmark with special reference to the chalk cliffs of Møns Klint
Prior to the decision to build the centre, the Geological Survey of Denmark and Greenland was asked to provide an evaluation of the landslide risk for the site, because landslides regularly occur along the cliff section (Pedersen 2003)
Summary
The Cretaceous chalk represents the oldest bedrock affected by glaciotectonic thrusting in Denmark. At Møns Klint an old Weichselian till is the oldest Quaternary deposit recognised at present (Pedersen & Gravesen 2006). This till is a grey and reddish sandy till that grades up into a gravelly, stone-rich top surface indicating terrestrial conditions. We tentatively correlate this unit with the Ristinge Klint Till (HoumarkNielsen 1987, 1994), which was deposited by a Baltic ice stream in the early part of the Weichselian When the Baltic Ice Stream melted back the depression became occupied by a huge lake, in which dark glaciolacustrine mud rich in dropstones was deposited (Houmark-Nielsen 1994; Houmark-Nielsen & Kjær 2003)
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callMore From: Geological Survey of Denmark and Greenland Bulletin
Disclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
