Cyprus

The island of Cyprus is a truly classic area of geology in Europe. Perhaps nowhere else on Earth does so small an area provide such an excellent illustration of the dynamics of Earth processes through abundant exposures of spectacular and diverse geology. This superb and accessible natural laboratory records at least 200 million years of plate-tectonic activity, particularly the construction, destruction and uplift of parts of the sea floor. The Troodos massif provides a complete cross section through the upper mantle and crust of a former ocean basin. A journey through the Troodos brings to life the processes of seafloor spreading, transform faulting, magma migration and crystallization, mineralization and submarine hot spring activity. Elsewhere, in the southwestern part of the island, the colourful jumble of rocks records the breakup of a former continental margin as a consequence of plate collision. Resting on top of all of this are excellent sedimentary sequences that record changes in tectonic activity, uplift of the Troodos massif, formation of depositional basins and changes in sea level. The fascinating story does not end here. The geology, natural resources and climate of Cyprus have enabled civilizations to flourish, and world-renowned archaeological sites date as far back as the Neolithic period. Much of the wealth and development of the island has been based on copper, and evidence of its exploitation dates to at least the third millennium BC. Cyprus is also a hazardous island. Modern and ancient settlements have been destroyed or abandoned as a consequence of earthquakes and landslides, the evidence for which is clearly visible in the landscape and ruins. Like its companions in the "Classic Geology in Europe" series, this authoritative work will appeal to all those with an interest in geology who visit this exceptional Mediterranean destination.