What is Geoheritage/Geology? “It is part of the natural heritage of a certain area constituted by geodiversity elements with particular geological value and hence worthy of safeguard for the benefit of present and future generations.” - ProGeo (the European association for the conservation of the geological heritage). Geoheritage is about appreciating our surroundings through the rocks, sediments and landscape forms we see around us. As you enjoy the view from Bell’s Field at the top of Patrick’s Hill or the dynamic waters of the Lee, you are, at the same time, appreciating geoheritage. As with everything that exists in abundance, it is easy to take the rocks in our City for granted. Every day we see the different kinds of rocks of Cork protruding from the ground, and our buildings are both made from and supported by these. These rocks have been here for millions of years, and they will be here for many millions of years into the future. The rocks and sediments of Cork have been studied over centuries and are still being researched by creative, productive and curious scientists referred to as geologists or geoscientists. However, studying the past is difficult. Truth be told, the past is gone and much of the evidence has been altered significantly over long stretches of time. Sadly, we will likely never find out how things exactly were in Earth’s deep history. But we know a lot, and that is amazing in itself, especially given how long ago these processes took place. Any geoscientist has likely had a sense of frustration with not being able to directly observe such things. Yet these scientists have still learned so much about our planet and its past. But first, here is another attempt at converting you to ‘geoheritage’ if you aren’t already. Ask yourself or the nearest person (or pet): Why are we here? Immediately, it becomes clear that this question lacks a lot of specifics. One important factor we need clarified in order to answer it is the relevant timescale. You might ask why you chose your current location a few seconds ago to read this booklet. Or question why you’re living in the area you’re living in right now. Or perhaps even consider why early settlers of the area of Cork City chose this wet, unpredictable river valley as their hub a few thousands of years ago. Perhaps they found themselves drawn to the River Lee and its resources or to the easy access to the sea. Maybe they simply liked the overall look of the area. It is hard to consider what decisions our predecessors would have made without looking at our surroundings. Our surroundings not only include Cork City but also the entire planet. Everything is part of a huge global system that is constantly changing. And in order to understand our surroundings here in Cork City, we cannot ignore its geology.
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