Tourism, Scientific, and Didactic Potential of the Ultrabasic-Alkaline Intrusion in Afrikanda with Perovskite Mineral (Kola Peninsula, N Russia) and of the Related Built Heritage

Abstract

The present article is an example of research on the tourism, scientific, and teaching potential of the ultrabasic-alkaline intrusion with perovskite minerals in Afrikanda (Kola Peninsula, North Russia) and the possibility of its development as part of a local geopark site. A proposal to create a protected zone in this site, to expose sites of geological, natural, historical, and tourist interest is presented. Didactic routes and locations of geo-point visitors are proposed. Currently, there are numerous quarries and other mining objects of high historical, technical, and geological value. In the vicinity, there is a trough lake and post-glacial formations that can supplement knowledge about this region and add interest to would-be visitors. The remains of a historical camp for workers and miners are also visible in the intrusion area. In the vicinity of Afrikanda village, there is an international railroad line to Murmansk and St. Petersburg with a working railroad station. The place has high historical and geological potential for tourists and very rare and interesting mineralization. The last is a key value. The location is associated with 30 alkaline intrusions in NE Fennoskandia. There are opportunities to create a museum with a park where, with relatively little funding (most of the existing infrastructure buildings are in good condition), the intrusions can be shown to tourists. We proposed a conservation area with exposures, quarries, mine infrastructure, and historical sites, along with the location of geosites, hiking trails, and a geo-point for visitors. These sites are prospective for the economic revival of Afrikanda village and can protect the unique exposures.

Keywords

• Afrikanda
• geoheritage
• historical heritage
• ultrabasic-alkaline intrusion
• Kola Peninsula
• NE Fennoscandia