Paleo-geomorphological riddles of the Kodry of Moldavia

Abstract

Special features of the Central Kodry topography and main stages of its evolution are discussed. An outstanding part in the present day topography modeling belongs to landslides, especially to large erosional-landslide hollows at valleys heads - so called «gyrtops». The morphology of the «gyrtops» and its cinnection with geological structures are discussed in details. Three main stages in the present relief evolution of the Kodry are distinguished on the basis of complex paleo-geomorphological and paleo-geographical analysis. Most active landslides are supposed to correspond to cold stage and periglacial conditions during last glaciation; the present day activization of landslides is accounted for by human activity.