Eemian Beach of Ribeira de Anha

Category: Nature > Beach

District: Viana do Castelo > Viana do Castelo > Darque > Cabedelo

Location

The Eemian Beach of Ribeira de Anha is located in the coastal area of Cabedelo, in the locality of Darque, an integral part of the municipality of Viana do Castelo. This site is situated on a coastal strip where the proximity of the sea reveals natural and geological characteristics of particular interest, offering a coastal landscape context that invites observation.

A Millennial Geological Testament

This natural monument is a valuable record of the geological history of the Viana do Castelo coastline. It stands out for preserving traces of a pebble beach, formed during the last interglacial period, known as the Eemian, approximately 125,000 years ago. This sedimentary deposit is unique on the Viana do Castelo coast, offering a unique opportunity to observe how sea dynamics shaped the landscape over tens of thousands of years.

The position of this ancient beach bed, slightly above the current sea level, provides important clues about crustal movements in the region, namely the uplift of the northern margin of the Lima river. It is a place that allows a glimpse into the geological transformations that occurred over a vast period of time.

Traces of the Past and Landscape

In addition to the evidence of the Eemian beach, the site exhibits other fascinating geological forms resulting from sea action, such as sapas (erosion hollows) and marmitas (potholes), which are cavities and rock formations sculpted by erosion, dating from the penultimate interglacial period, about 245,000 years ago. The area also preserves traces of pre-Roman salt pans, indicating ancient human presence and the exploitation of natural resources along this coastal stretch, long before the arrival of Roman civilization.

Recommendation for Visiting

A complete observation of the geological and historical elements of the Eemian Beach of Ribeira de Anha depends on natural conditions. For a richer experience, it is recommended to visit during low tide and when the sea is calmer, as under these conditions the millennial remains become more visible and accessible for those exploring the site.

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