Cyprus

The island of Cyprus is a truly classic area of geology in Europe. Perhaps nowhere else on Earth does so small an area provide such an excellent illustration of the dynamics of Earth processes through abundant exposures of spectacular and diverse geology. The geology, natural resources and climate of Cyprus have enabled civilizations to flourish, and world-renowned archaeological sites date as far back as the Neolithic period. Much of the wealth and development of the island has been based on copper, and evidence of its exploitation dates to at least the third millennium BC. Cyprus is also a hazardous island. Modern and ancient settlements have been destroyed or abandoned as a consequence of earthquakes and landslides. This authoritative work will appeal to all those with an interest in geology who visit this exceptional Mediterranean destination.

Stephen Edwards is a research fellow and the research and education development manager of the Aon Benfield UCL Hazard Research Centre at University College London. Karen Hudson-Edwards is a senior lecturer in the Department of Earth and Planetary Sciences at Birkbeck, University of London. Joe Cann is emeritus professor of Earth sciences at the University of Leeds. John Malpas is professor of geology and holder of the Chair of Earth Sciences at the University of Hong Kong. Costas Xenophontos is an honorary associate professor at the University of Hong Kong and retired senior geologist of the Cyprus Geological Survey Department.