Valorization of the Geological Heritage of the Western High Atlas Coast (Agadir, Morocco)

The Western Coastal High Atlas in southwest Morocco, including the Medina of Essaouira, harbors significant geological and paleontological heritage spanning from the Triassic to the Plio-Quaternary periods. This study identifies and evaluates key geosites—stratigraphic, tectonic, sedimentological, and paleontological—for their potential to promote conservation, education, and sustainable tourism. Using a multi-criteria approach (e.g., site integrity, accessibility, representativeness), researchers assessed 38 geosites between Agadir and the Haha–Essaouira Plateau, highlighting their scientific value and tourist appeal. The findings underscore the region's untapped potential for geotourism while emphasizing the need for integrated preservation strategies to balance heritage valorization with sustainable development.

Abderrahmane, BARGACH, K., & AMZIL, L. (2026). Valorization of the Geological Heritage of the Western High Atlas Coast (Agadir, Morocco). The Iraqi Geological Journal, 204–220. https://doi.org/10.46717/igj.2026.59.1c.15