The scientific interest and the need for conservation in Sampaio area (Labruge, Vila do Conde)

Abstract

Sampaio' s beach, Iocated 20 km North of Oporto, has many points  f interest. There is a fossil wave cut notch and a marine deposit, hanging at 9 meters high. Nearby we can see a deposit of the same age (probably Iast interglacial), Iying at 5 meters. The difference in the altitudes of the two deposits could be explained by a neotectonic effect, as all the cliffs that enclose Sampaio's beach are structurally controlled. Over the 5 meters marine deposit we find a complex würmian sequence, with two solifluxive deposits and an aeolian deposit between them. The association of this geomorphological features with a very rare archaeological site makes us emphasize the need of protecting this place.

1t is a very demanded beach, so, its protection must be done with the help of the concerned people. We want to emphasize the need of preservation and protection of this area as a relevant aim for local authorities. !f nothing is done, the consequences of a recently improved accessibility can be rather perverse and the existence of this geomorphological and archeological remains is certainly threatened.