(Zaragoza. Wednesday, September 11, 2024). The announcement of the “Second 100 Geological Heritage Sites of the IUGS” was made on August 27 at the International Geological Congress held in Busan, South Korea. These “Second 100 Sites” are recognized by the IUGS for their exceptional scientific value and global interest, representing the best examples of geological formations and processes that help us understand the dynamics and history of our planet. These sites offer invaluable educational resources, which our society has the duty to preserve.

The celebration event took place on Saturday, August 7, at 12:00 p.m. at the Aliaga Geological Park Visitor Center, presided over by the mayor of Aliaga, Alberto Valero. It began with a presentation by José Luis Simón, Professor of the Department of Earth Sciences at the University of Zaragoza and scientific coordinator of the Geological Park, who highlighted the scientific and educational significance of what are likely the largest and most unique examples of superimposed tectonic folds, magnificently visible in the area’s landscape. These folds are considered a global reference for this type of tectonic structure, particularly the La Olla anticline, located near the town of Aliaga.

 

 

Luis Alcalá, Director of the Science Park of Granada, former director of the Paleontological Joint Foundation of Teruel-Dinópolis, and regular evaluator for the IUGS, explained the selection process for the “Second 100” sites by the IUGS.

Julia Escorihuela, Manager of the Aliaga Geological Park, discussed the significance of the IUGS recognition for the park and expressed her hopes that it would contribute to an increase in visitors.

Blanca Bauluz, Director of the Department of Earth Sciences at the University of Zaragoza, expressed her satisfaction with the achievement and celebrated the successful collaboration between the department and the Aliaga Town Hall over the 31 years since the park’s creation.

Alberto Cobos, Director of the Dinópolis Foundation, spoke about the foundation’s longstanding collaboration with the park and recalled Teruel’s pioneering role in promoting geology and paleontology.

José Manuel Azcón, President of the Board of Trustees of the Maestrazgo Cultural Park and Geopark, expressed the Geopark’s support for educational projects in Aliaga.

Marta Sancho, Delegate for Tourism of the Provincial Government of Teruel, expressed her hopes that this recognition would provide new momentum for the Geological Park and showcase its enormous geotourism potential.

Finally, Luis Alcalá presented the official diploma awarded by the IUGS to the park manager and the mayor of Aliaga. The event concluded with a brief visit to a viewpoint adjacent to the town, from which attendees could admire the unique La Olla fold.