Volcanic heritage of the carpathian-pannonian region in eastern-central Europe

Abstract

The Carpathian-Pannonian Region in eastern-central Europe provides a unique insight into a wide range of volcanic phenomena. Eruptions of various magmas occurred here during the last 20 million years and the last volcanic eruption took place only 30 thousand years ago. Post-volcanic erosion revealed nicely the inner structure of the volcanic edifices and preserved almost all of the typical volcanic formations characterize the basaltic through andesitic-dacitic to rhyolitic volcanism. The volcanic heritage meets with cultural, historic, gastronomic and winery pleasures and hospitality of local people. Geotourism is a developing area here supported by two new Geoparks, both based primarily on volcanic heritage and a unique thematic Volcano Park.