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A region with unique geological diversity
The area comprises an association of deep, middle and upper crustal rocks which has long served as an unparalleled model for the interpretation of geophysical data relating to the continental crust, and has been the subject of study by scientists from all over the world for many years. These rocks were brought to the surface by the collision between the African and European continents, which, over the last 100 million years, led to the formation of the Alps.
Stretching from the Po Valley to the peaks of the Alps, the Geopark also offers the opportunity to observe evidence of climate change, as recorded by Pleistocene geomorphology, the recent retreat of glaciers, and human settlements dating back to the Palaeolithic.
Finally, the presence and availability of various rock types have fostered a culture of stone that is evident not only in the anthropology of the landscape but also in major architectural achievements such as Milan Cathedral, with its pink Candoglia marble, or the Basilica of St Paul Outside the Walls in Rome, featuring Montorfano granite.
The Geosites
Geosites represent the geodiversity of a territory, understood as the range of geological characteristics (including structural, mineralogical, petrographic, palaeontological, geomorphological, hydrogeological, pedological, sedimentological and georesource aspects) characteristic of a given area.
They are recognised on the basis of their scientific value, educational content and significance as geotourism destinations. They are classified according to their level of importance at international, national, regional or local level.
They may also be associated with additional aesthetic, historical/archaeological and/or sporting attractions. A total of 68 geosites have been identified within the Geopark’s territory. Initiatives focusing on these sites aim at geoconservation, economic development, sustainable management and responsible use.
The Supervolcano
In the heart of the Western Alps lies the fossilised remains of a supervolcano, revealing its deepest parts. Around 300 million years ago, when there was a single continent on Earth called Pangaea, a volcano erupted, spewing out an immense quantity of material and releasing energy equivalent to 250 atomic bombs.
Between 60 and 30 million years ago, the same processes that formed the Alps lifted and rotated the section of the Earth’s crust where the erupted volcano was located, revealing its magma chamber down to a depth of around 30 km: this is a phenomenon unique in the world! Evidence of its existence can be seen in an area stretching from Valsesia and Valsessera right up to the shores of Lake Maggiore.
A unique region
The Geopark’s territory stretches from hilly landscapes to peaks exceeding four thousand metres: a succession of diverse landscapes unfolds, featuring areas that are more or less flat, steep slopes and jagged ridges; abundant rainfall feeds numerous rivers, and many bodies of water dot the landscape, from the vast Lake Maggiore to high-altitude lakes; Added to this is the presence of rocks of varying chemical composition: this immense variety of environmental conditions results in the Geopark’s flora being abundant and diverse, including rare and endemic species.
