The Geomorphology of Calabria. A sketch

Abstract

Calabria is a region of recent and active tectonic uplift. The difference in uplift rates results in the block-faulting of the crust and in the building of an irregular relief. The paper presents a short description of the geology, climate and human presence and activity throughout the region. Then an attempt is made of describing main forms of the studied territory in terms of order of magnitude. Finally, it follows the description of the present morphodynamic processes which are characterized by high magnitude recurrent events. Mass-movement, stream and coastal erosion are the result of tectonic and climatic conditions of Calabria, as well as of nonregulated uman activity.