Erratic blocks are the main geosites in Turin’s suburban area. Today, they are a symbol of the ‘landscape to be saved’ even for those who are barely aware of their geological importance. This is because the blocks are the subject of myths (based on their geomorphological characters), such as: interpretation of weathering as altars or runic writing; attribution of strange shapes, noises, lairs, to petrified supernatural beings; interpretation of isolated blocks as dwellings of protector beings; use of the blocks for boulders; supposed reports of UFOs and ‘disappeared civilizations’. In ancient times, erratic blocks were at the centre of religious practices. However, most myths are in fact recent. The Barbarian invasions and the fight against Paganism destroyed the ancient myths. The creation of new myths proves that erratic blocks are able to attract mankind’s attention in every epoch. When the geologist proposes blocks as protected geosites, he must show the connection between geomorphology and myths, maintaining the suggestive impact of the myths. Myths, including recent and altered ones, can work together with scientific explanation to make it easier for the public to understand the true importance of erratic blocks. By exploiting the power and appeal of myth, the community will more easily accept the need to preserve scientifically valuable geosites.

Erratic blocks: from protector beings to geosites to be protected

MOTTA, LUIGI;MOTTA, Michele
2007-01-01

Abstract

Erratic blocks are the main geosites in Turin’s suburban area. Today, they are a symbol of the ‘landscape to be saved’ even for those who are barely aware of their geological importance. This is because the blocks are the subject of myths (based on their geomorphological characters), such as: interpretation of weathering as altars or runic writing; attribution of strange shapes, noises, lairs, to petrified supernatural beings; interpretation of isolated blocks as dwellings of protector beings; use of the blocks for boulders; supposed reports of UFOs and ‘disappeared civilizations’. In ancient times, erratic blocks were at the centre of religious practices. However, most myths are in fact recent. The Barbarian invasions and the fight against Paganism destroyed the ancient myths. The creation of new myths proves that erratic blocks are able to attract mankind’s attention in every epoch. When the geologist proposes blocks as protected geosites, he must show the connection between geomorphology and myths, maintaining the suggestive impact of the myths. Myths, including recent and altered ones, can work together with scientific explanation to make it easier for the public to understand the true importance of erratic blocks. By exploiting the power and appeal of myth, the community will more easily accept the need to preserve scientifically valuable geosites.
2007
Myth and Geology
Geological Society of London
1
315
327
9781862392168
Cultural heritage; Erratic blocks; Geosites; Glacial morphology; Geomorphology; Weathering; Environment
L. MOTTA; M. MOTTA
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Utilizza questo identificativo per citare o creare un link a questo documento: https://hdl.handle.net/2318/23851
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