PALAEO VOLCANIC RELIEF FORMS AS A PART OF THE GEOHERITAGE IN THE REPUBLIC OF MACEDONIA, THEIR VALUATION AND PROTECTION

In its geological evolution, the territory of the Republic of Macedonia was characterized by a great volcanic activity, but given the fact that active volcanic processes are not present today, the palaeo-volcanic relief forms are being emphasized. They occur in the form of volcanic cones, volcanic necks or plugs, remnants of volcanic craters, plateaus and other forms that are most prominent in the areas of extinct volcanic activity. The significance of the objects of the geoheritage is based on their defined values. Upon the termination of the volcanic activity to date, the volcanic forms are significantly morphologically modified mostly as a result of the large erosive processes and anthropogenic influences. Therefore, the prominent palaeo-volcanic relief forms that are part of the geoheritage need adequate protection. They deserve special attention, due to the fact that some of them are natural rarities that exceed not only the borders of the Balkan Peninsula but also in Europe.