Characterization and Geotourist Resources of the Campo de Calatrava Volcanic Region (Ciudad Real, Castilla-La Mancha, Spain) to Develop a UNESCO Global Geopark Project

Abstract

The Campo de Calatrava Volcanic Region is located in Central Spain (Ciudad Real province, Castilla-La Mancha) where some eruptions of different intensity and spatial location took place throughout a period of more than 8 million years. As a result, more than 360 volcanic edifices spread over 5000 km2. Eruptions of this volcanic system were derived from alkaline magmas with events of low explosivity (Hawaiian and Strombolian). These events are characterized by three different manifestations: the emission of pyroclasts (cinder and spatter cones) and lava flows; some hydromagmatic events, which lead to the formation of wide craters (maars) and pyroclastic flows; and remnant volcanic activity related to gas emission (CO2), hot springs (hervideros) and carbonic water fountains (fuentes agrias). The methods used for this study are based on analytical studies of geography, geomorphology and geoheritage to identify volcanoes and their resources and attractions linked to the historical-cultural heritage. These volcanoes are a potential economic resource and attraction for the promotion of volcano tourism (geotourism), and they are the basis for achieving a UNESCO Global Geopark Project, as a sustainable territorial and economic management model, to be part of the international networks of conservation and protection of nature and, especially, that of volcanoes.