Abstract:

This study presents a comprehensive overview of Greece's geomorphology at a 1:1,000,000 scale, aiming to integrate and interpret the geological and geomorphological factors responsible for the formation and evolution of its landscape. It represents a pioneering cartographic synthesis, bringing together diverse data sources and employing semi-automated GIS techniques. The production of the geomorphological map relied on an extensive literature review of previous studies covering Greece's terrestrial and coastal areas at varying scales. Leveraging high-resolution topography provided by the Hellenic Cadastre and the 1:50,000-scale geological maps from the Institute of Geology and Mineral Exploration of Greece, a spatial geodatabase was established. Several secondary layers, including hillshade, slope-aspect, and red relief image maps, were combined with Google Earth Imagery to delineate landforms across the entire Greek territory. The resulting map offers a comprehensive depiction of landforms originating from both endogenic and exogenic processes. It encompasses structural landforms, fluvial erosional and depositional features, gravity-induced landforms, coastal, karst, volcanic, glacial and periglacial landforms, as well as anthropogenic elements.
Additionally, accompanying maps and tables provide essential topographic parameters, geotectonic context, and climatic characteristics. The findings underscore the heterogeneity of Greece's geomorphological environments, shaped primarily by active tectonics and exogenic processes. The map serves as a valuable tool for stakeholders involved in land management, offering crucial insights for informed decision-making. Furthermore, it provides a solid foundation for interdisciplinary research, facilitating investigations spanning fields such as geology, geography, environmental sciences, and more. Overall, this comprehensive geomorphological map represents the latest advancements in the study of Greece's landscape.
With its wealth of information and its interdisciplinary relevance, it serves as a vital reference for researchers, educators, and practitioners, fostering a deeper understanding of Greece's dynamic landforms and supporting sustainable land management practices.