Mount Pantokrator Sinkholes

August 31, 2014

Dolini

Photographer: Bill Metallinos; Bill's Website
Summary Author: Bill Metallinos; Jackie Phillips

Over the crest of Mount Pantokrator, Greece, lies the most intense cluster of sinkholes in Europe. The 6.2 sq mi (16 sq km) area contains ancient carbonate formations and dolomitic limestone likely created during the Eocene epoch. Mount Pantokrator was uplifted during the continental collision that closed the Ocean of Tethys, 18-12 million years ago. Evidence of this ancient ocean is present in the Swiss Alps as well as the Himalayas. Photo taken on May 17, 2013.

Photo details: Canon EOS 40D camera; Canon EF 15 mm fisheye lens; f/2.8; ISO 400.