National Geosite Census

Geosites are elements, areas or places of geological interest that have an important naturalistic value and are important witnesses of the Earth’s history. They make the places and areas “unique” due to their specific physical, morphological, climatic and structural factors. Identifying, cataloguing and evaluating geosites is a preparatory activity for their protection and conservation. The National Geosite Census project was started in 2000 and is aimed at realizing a census of geosites on the national territory so that it can become an essential tool for a wide geological knowledge, for territorial planning and for the protection of the landscape and the environment. The catalogue currently includes 3,700 national geosites, of which 2,259 were submitted to a first revision. The census was realized by means of a dedicated database and map-making, both on a local and national scale. The next stage will include the identification of reference procedures for the evaluation, validation and improvement of geosites. This will require the involvement of a geological coordination committee composed of State, Regions and Autonomous Provinces. It will lead to the publication of an “Italian Geosite Catalogue”. The census of geosites will take place by compiling a specific form containing the geographical, geological, mineralogical and typological identification parameters of the sites of interest. Regions, local bodies, research institutions and relevant organizations which are interested in giving their contribution to the national geosite census can transmit their indications by filling in the “Geosite information form” indicated below.

Geosite Information Form (file PDF - 125 Kb)

Geosite Information Form Guide (file PDF - 85 Kb)