PATRIMONIO GEOLÓGICO Y GEODIVERSIDAD: BASES PARA SU DEFINICIÓN EN LA ZONA ANDINA DE COLOMBIA: CASO SANTA FE DE ANTIOQUIA

The main objective of this research was to adapt a methodology for inventory and assessment of Geological Heritage applied to the Andean region of Colombia on the northwest of the country, specifically in the town of Santa Fe de Antioquia. The methodology is adapted to the current state of knowledge of the Geological Heritage and Geodiversity in Colombia. Within this research the selection of the study area, the definition of work scale, the literature review, the definition of parameters for valuation, development of inventories, valuation, mapping and final use of the Geological Heritage and geodiversity were included; furthermore determination of the intrinsic value of the Points of Geological Interest Points (GIP). Scores ranging from one to five depending on the case, with five being the highest degree of importance and value, and one the lowest. The investigation classifies and designates relevance and category through the diagnosis and assessment of five points; Volcanic ash Recent Deposits, Laterites Santa Fe de Antioquia, La Tunala Creek and Viewpoint Spider, which resulted in four with a score greater than or equal to three. This paper allows to enhance the natural, scientific and tourist potential of Santa Fe de Antioquia and recommended that the methodology may apply to other GIP in the Colombian Andes with the aim of promoting environmental management and sustainable development principles for the country