Almeria

Overview

Almeria exhibits superb structural geology (especially the fault system), a complete Neogene sedimentary sequence (itself rare) involving an enormous range of sedimentary environments, and classic dryland geomorphology. Exposure of the sedimentary sequences is excellent. The area is spectacular and the landform assemblage includes a wide range of erosional and depositional landscapes. Furthermore, the region enables linkages to be made between the several disciplines of geodynamics. The Neogene sequence cannot be interpreted without considering the evolving tectonics nor the contemporaneous geomorphology. Neither may the geomorphology be understood without considering the modern landscape as a development from the Neogene tectonic and sedimentary sequences.

This guide is an essential companion to geologists and physical geographers visiting this province in SE Spain to view its range of unique features, made famous as a spectacular location for a host of popular films. GPS coordinates are provided for the locations discussed.

Reviews

‘From a critical view, this book can be considered as a general volume for those who are interested in geology in a simple way or those tourists who are curious to know more about the history of the earth. Especially the last section of the book has potential for use by the geo-tourism industry or as a guide by teachers for field classes to convey main concepts in geology and geomorphology. Academically speaking, this book is a good resource for undergraduate students for further reading; because there are plentiful photographs, which make it easy to understand for undergraduates in order to learn how to interpret forms and processes in fieldwork. There are also several appendices including a glossary, field logistics, geological timescale, and the stratigraphy from Neogene to Quaternary of Almeria at the end of the book for those who are not familiar with technical terms in this area. These appendices make the book accessible even for the layperson. The authors also reference de­ tailed studies and research at the end of each topic for further information and relate their interpretation of the site to those studies. They also suggest the best location for a panoramic view of the basins for tourists and tourist guides.’ Geomorphology

‘The present book deals with Almeria (a province in SE Spain), which is a classical area for Mediterranean Neogene and Quaternary geology, also because of the interaction between the European and the African plates. The consequent initial compression resulted in the Betic Cordilleras, but during the late Tertiary the compressional regime was replaced by lateral shear, resulting in a basin-and- range terrain. Basins preserve the evaporites related to the so-called Messinian salinity crisis, when the Mediterranean desiccated. And the above aspects are only a few of those that make this region a classic! The book is well illustrated in full colour, with maps, field sketches and abundant photographs. The text is well written and easily readable. It has an extensive index, and for the non-professionals a useful glossary and a time scale.’ Geologos

Author Biography

Adrian Harvey graduated with BSc then PhD degrees from University College, London then worked in the University of Liverpool until retirement. He is now Emeritus Professor of Geomorphology in the School of Environmental Sciences, University of Liverpool. Anne Mather graduated with a BSc degree from the University of Hull, then a PhD degree from the University of Liverpool. She is currently Reader in the School of Geography, Earth and Environmental Sciences at the University of Plymouth.