Terra Rossa of Greece's Kokkinopilos Hills

Photographer: Spyros AntonopoulosSummary Author: Spyros Antonopoulos

The Kokkinopilos Hills of Greece exhibit a remarkable geological phenomenon. Over the years rainfall has transformed this low plateau, rich in terra rossa (iron oxide with clay), into a landscape of rolling hills and narrow gorges. This vibrant red soil adds visual allure of the region. It's also found in other Southern European countries like Spain and Italy, is believed to have been deposited by African dust carried over by southern winds from the Sahara, according to recent research by Spanish and American scientists.The presence of this terra rossa significantly influences local agriculture, as its high fertility supports the cultivation of olives, grapes, and cereals. However, it also presents challenges because of its high clay content, affecting water drainage and root penetration. Conservation efforts are crucial to managing the environmental impacts of erosion and land degradation here. Understanding terra rossa also offers insights into historical climatic patterns, aiding in predictions of future environmental changes. Photo taken on May 6, 2024.

Kokkinopilos Hills, Greece Coordinates: 39.2559306, 20.7621099

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