Ekskurzija Siva Istra

Field Trip Grey Istria

Central Istria is characterized by Eocene clastic deposits formed in a deep-sea environment, consisting of hemipelagic marl (Globigerina marl) and sediments formed by the deposition from various gravity flows (Flysch). Mild post-Eocene tectonic activity (uplift of the relief in the Neogene and Quaternary up to 500 m) and specific lithology (poorly permeable clastic sediments) conditioned intensive development of exogenetic processes, including intensive mechanical weathering of bedrock, erosion, ravelling, and landslides. The aforementioned processes and physical-mechanical features of Eocene clastic deposits form a high-energy relief with a very dissected hydrographic network and the appearance of isolated phenomena known in the literature as badlands.

The badlands of Central Istria with their spectacular morphology are visited by tourists more and more each year. At the same time, they provide a visually open record of a various geological and sedimentological processes and represent research polygons for geological experts of various profiles, primarily sedimentologists and engineering geomorphologists.

Excursion points are designed to present an overview of the Stratigraphic evolution of the Flysch basin, from the initial stages in which the transitional sediment is deposited, over hemipelagic Globigerina marls and finally, the youngest sediments develop by turbidity currents. Within the latter, imposing megabeds stand out, which by their appearance influence both the geomorphological and social development of the area. This fact is supported by the positioning of larger and historically significant settlements built on them (Buzet, Motovun, Boljun, Gračišće, Pićan, etc.).

Considering that the stopping points on this excursion are somewhat distant from the roads, the necessary equipment includes protective footwear.

Itinerar:

1) Polazak