Volcanic and Cultural Geoheritage Potential of Erenlerdağ-Alacadağ Volcanism (SW of Konya-Türkiye)

Abstract

The Erenlerdağ–Alacadağ Volcanic Complex (ErAVC), located in southwest Konya (Central Anatolia), represents a Neogene-aged volcanic unit covering approximately 1500 km². The EAVC is composed of volcanic products that range in composition from mafic to felsic, including lava domes, lava flows, pyroclastic fall and flow deposits, and subvolcanic intrusions such as dikes and plugs. The present study aims to identify and characterize representative volcanic geosites within the ErAVC, assess their geoheritage value, and discuss their potential for geotourism and educational development in the context of Central Anatolian Volcanic Geoheritage.Volcanic facies analysis reveals a wide range of eruptive behaviors, from the development of lava domes and lava flows and the formation of dacitic spine structures to ignimbrite-forming explosive volcanism and complex volcano-sedimentary processes, expressed across facies ranging from central/proximal to distal settings. In the proximal and medial facies, dacitic–andesitic lava flows, domes, their pyroclastic equivalents, and ignimbrite sequences display features indicative of multi-stage magma mixing, recharge events, and decompression-driven processes. Distal facies are characterized by tuff horizons, widespread ignimbrite, and sedimentary units, which clearly reflect the synchronous development of volcanic and sedimentary processes. These well-preserved successions provide rare and valuable archives for reconstructing eruption dynamics and magma chamber evolution in continental arc settings. The distribution of volcanic facies in the ErAVC documents a pronounced geomorphological contrast between high-relief areas associated with lava domes and lava flows, and lower-relief zones dominated by ignimbrites, tuff layers, and volcano-sedimentary units.Highly porous ignimbrites and tuff horizons in the medial-distal facies have facilitated settlement and construction activities throughout history, as exemplified by the rock-carved dwellings of the ancient city of Kilistra. The ancient settlement of Kilistra, located within the boundaries of the Erenlerdağ–Alacadağ Volcanic Complex (ErAVC), represents one of the rare geo-cultural heritage sites where volcanological, geomorphological, and archaeological components are integrated. The Late Hittite-period Fasıllar Monument, built upon resistant dacitic–andesitic lava flows, stands as a striking example of the integration of volcanic lithologies into the cultural landscape. In conclusion, the ErAVC is one of the most significant geosites in Central Anatolia, offering substantial potential for geoconservation, geoeducation, and sustainable geotourism. The region’s geological diversity and cultural assets serve as an “open-air laboratory” for multidisciplinary research and community engagement.