Hydro-Stratigraphic Conditions and Human Activity Leading to Development of a Sinkhole Cluster in a Mediterranean Water Ecosystem

Salento Peninsula (Apulia, southern Italy) is characterised by many active sinkholes, which represent the main geological hazard. The stretch of coastline between village Casalabate and Le Cesine wildlife reserve highly affected, with a system dunes separating low beach from extensive wetlands, were subject to uncontrolled urban development after reclamation. overall morphology characterized flat topography, whilst hydrogeological standpoint, mixing inland freshwater advancing brackish water favours higher aggressivity respect soluble rocks, enhanced dissolution (hyperkarst). relict landscapes within protected areas still allow for recognition actively occurring cause damage houses, road network infrastructures. In this article case Aquatina di Frigole described, where in last 15 years numerous sinkholes have formed, processes rapid evolution. Detailed surveys identification mechanisms sinkhole formation (suffusion sinkholes), deriving cluster, links among different bodies area. Acquatina provides an excellent natural laboratory observe evolution their relationships stratigraphic elements.