Field Geosciences Teaching Module: Geoparks and GeositesGeopark Naturtejo Meseta Meridional

Portas de Almourão: What is the sustainability of a Project to build a

dam in this geosite?

Geological Map of Naturtejo Global Geopark

Portas de Almourão

Portas de Almourão

Geodynamic evolution of the landscape

500 million years ago there was an ocean where sand and clay sediments have been deposited

300 million years ago the collision of tectonic plates lead to the formation of a mountain belt by deformation of the sedimentary rocks previously formed

Geodynamic evolution of the landscape

About 2 million years ago the Ocreza river incised its valley across Ródão Syncline

Albarda Fold

Skolithos trace fossils

Ripple marks

What is the meaning of the name “Albarda” for the fold?

Roman Gold Mine

How was the gold mined?

Where did the gold come from?

Landslide and scree deposits

The landslides and scree deposits along the valley slopes are the result of the erosion of the quartzite crests in very steep slopes

What can be the importance of building a dam in this place?

Natural and Cultural Heritage