Chestnut Fold Field

Category: Culture and Entertainment > Tourist Attraction

District: Aveiro > Vale de Cambra > Castanheira > Campo de Dobras

Location:

The Castanheira Fold Field is situated in the area designated as Campo de Dobras, in the locality of Castanheira, within the municipality of Vale de Cambra. This point of interest is located in a natural environment, accompanied by the Castanheira stream, an affluent of the Caima river, which defines part of the landscape.

The surroundings are characterized by the presence of exposed rocky formations, in a setting that invites observation and tranquility, far from the hustle and bustle, allowing for a calm appreciation of nature and the geological phenomena present.

Visible Geology:

In this location, the Earth reveals its history in an impressive way. The rocks, which formed over 500 million years ago at the bottom of an ancient sea, present themselves here as if they were molded by giant hands. Originally deposited in horizontal layers, these metamorphic rocks were subjected to colossal compressional forces, about 350 million years ago, during the formation of the supercontinent Pangaea.

These high pressures and temperatures caused the rocks, despite their rigidity, to behave in a ductile manner, folding without breaking. It is this characteristic that gave rise to the visible "folds" of different dimensions, which resemble waves or creases in the landscape. The presence of quartz veins, light-colored and resistant to erosion, further enhances the complexity and beauty of these geological formations, making them easier to identify and understand.

Natural Richness and Biodiversity:

The Castanheira Fold Field is not just an open book of geology; it is also a vibrant ecosystem. The Castanheira stream plays a crucial role, sustaining a diverse life that develops around it. This watercourse serves as a refuge for a variety of plant species.

Among the vegetation, bryophytes, such as those of the genus Sphagnum, and vascular plants, including Nardus stricta or Sedum brevifolium, are found. In the rockier areas, the flora presents particularities, such as the autumn crocus (Crocus serotinus), an Iberian endemic. The sky above this field is often flown over by birds of prey, such as the Montagu's harrier, the common kestrel, and the Eurasian sparrowhawk, which seek food in the landscape.

Observation Point:

For those visiting the Castanheira Fold Field, a platform has been built to facilitate the observation of the geological folds. This support point provides a privileged view of the rocky outcrops, inviting contemplation of the complex structures that time and Earth's forces have sculpted.

It is a place that offers the opportunity to stop and absorb the grandeur of natural phenomena, understand the scale of geological processes, and appreciate the beauty of an environment where geology merges with the landscape, creating a scene of particular interest and serenity.

License: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/deed.pt