The geology of Malta and Gozo

Abstract

A review is given of the setting, history of study, sequence and structure of the Oligo-Miocene sediments of the Maltese Islands. Largely carbonate rocks of Chattian to Tortonian age are represented in a sequence of Lower Coralline Limestone, Globigerina Limestone, Blue Clay, Greensand and Upper Coralline Limestone Formations. Small-scale geological maps are given, based on a new 6-inch- and 25-inch-to-the-mile mapping. A structure contour map and isopachyte maps for certain units are given for both islands. Sedimentological and palaeoenvironmental interpretations of the succession are presented.