Perspectiva histórica del conocimiento geológico de las rías gallegas.

Abstract

The complex problem of the origin of the Galician rias has generated an interesting scientific discussion which is important to know when approaching their study. The associated scientific production shows the progress in the geo 21 G. Méndez y D. Rey Perspectiva histórica del conocimiento geológico de las rías gallegas logical discipline since de XIX century and subsequent introduction of new concepts and theories. This process was mostly prompted by individuals and institutions under the influence of distinct personal and historical contexts. Since the acceptance of Von Richthofen definition of ria in 1886 as an stretch of coast characterised by the occurrence of a (paleo)valley occupied by the sea, several authors have intended to explain their origin and evolution with different degree of success. We have been able to distinguish two phases in this progress. The first phase is characterised by the contribution of foreign geographers and extend well into the first half of the twentieth century. The second phased is defined by the research carried out under the auspicious of the Laboratorio Xeoloxico de Laxe (A Coruña), firstly and of the Galician universities later.