Zumaia

The geology near Zumaia (Spain) is unique and renowned for the spectacular and well-preserved flysch formations along the coast, part of the Basque Coast UNESCO Global Geopark. This flysch consists of successive sedimentary layers of limestone, marl, and sandstone, chronologically revealing some 60 million years of Earth's history, from the Late Cretaceous to the Paleocene/Tertiary. The rock layers are like an open book, allowing researchers to learn more about major events such as the impact that led to the extinction of the dinosaurs (Cretaceous-Tertiary boundary), which is locally clearly visible as a thin, dark layer.

The coastline near Zumaia, stretching for approximately 13 kilometers, displays these unique geological deposits, where the stratification and sharpness of the rocks are exceptionally well preserved. This area also boasts so-called "golden spikes," which mark internationally recognized landmarks of geological time divisions within the sedimentary layers. Furthermore, erosion and tectonic processes have created impressive cliffs and caves, making the area attractive to both scientists and tourists interested in geology.

The flysch formations originate in a deep-sea environment with unstable ocean floor, where submarine avalanches and sediment flows deposited layers that accumulated over millions of years, sometimes reaching thicknesses of up to 4.5 kilometers. This makes the Zumaia coast a globally important location for learning more about the Mesozoic-Cenozoic transition and the changes in climate and biodiversity during that time.

Dromos