Geomorphology of Abandoned Underground Slate Mines in Czechia

Abstract We conducted one of the first complex geomorphological investigations underground abandoned slate mines in Czechia, Central Europe. Sixty types subterranean geomorphic forms were described from 114 Nízký Jeseník Upland. The forms, evaluated according to their type, scale, frequency, and fragility, are independent each other or embedded. Their cascades occur large multilevel affected by fluvial gravitational processes. Analysis microforms revealed mine pearls enriched with titanium, calcareous soda-straw stalactites, amorphous calcareous-sulphurous piles, quartz veins. Forty-seven identified failures. Four-year measurements cracks both negligible oscillations distinct displacement rock blocks up 4 mm. range together measured crack point rich geodiversity high dynamics within mines. Compared geosystems, geomorphology remains poorly investigated, although knowledge systems is crucial for future natural evaluation, risk assessment, remediation, tourist management mining sites. recent results applicable world. However, we should expect new findings investigation as yet undescribed forms.