Inventário e interpretação do patrimônio geológico da proposta de Geoparque Serra do Sincorá, Bahia, Brasil.

Abstract

This study aims to reassess, update, expand and interpret the geological heritage inventory for the proposed Serra do Sincorá Geopark, located in the Chapada Diamantina region, Bahia, Brazil. Encompassing an area of 6,313 km² across the municipalities of Andaraí, Lençóis, Mucugê, and Palmeiras, most of the region lies within the Chapada Diamantina National Park, a renowned and important Brazilian tourist destination. The area, part of the Espinhaço Supergroup, is distinguished by its exceptional geodiversity, featuring geological formations of scientific, educational, and touristic significance. The research includes a bibliographic review and the evaluation of 45 geosites, of which 31 are pre-existing and 14 are newly proposed. Fieldwork conducted in 2024 utilized the GEOSSIT app, developed by the Geological Survey of Brazil (SGB/CPRM), to assess the sites' scientific, educational, and touristic potential, as well as their vulnerability to degradation. The findings underscore the international significance of iconic geosites such as Cachoeira da Fumaça and Morro do Pai Inácio, while highlighting newly identified sites, such as Cachoeira do Sossego, Cachoeira do Herculano, and Pedreira do Capão, as nationally relevant. This work contributes to strengthening the proposal for the Serra do Sincorá Geopark, supporting its future application to UNESCO´ International Geociences and Geoparks Programme and later integration into UNESCO's Global Geoparks Network. Additionally, the project fosters initiatives in geoconservation, environmental education, and sustainable development through geotourism, reinforcing the importance of preserving and valuing geological heritage in the region.