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Geology

The magnificent Tre Cime from Rifugio Auronzo (Walk 9)

The rocks of the Dolomites were formed some 230 million years ago, when a shallow tropical sea covered the area and deposits of coral and sea creatures gradually built up on the sea floor. It was not until 65 million years ago that the area underwent the dramatic tectonic events that led to the creation of the alpine chain, when rock slabs began to be upended and lifted hither and thither. A succession of ice ages followed, and erosion from snow, rain and wind continues to shape the wonderful mountains visitors see today.

However, the ‘Pale Mounts’ – as they were first known – attracted curious geologists well before travellers. In 1789 French mineralogist Déodat de Dolomieu identified their composition as the limestone variant calcium magnesium carbonate, which was later named dolomite in his honour. As regards its origin, scholars have long puzzled over the abundance of fossilised shells and marine creatures embedded in the rock at such heights and so far from the sea.