Exposing geology in the city
"We chose to showcase the city centre of Trondheim to demonstrate what can be found in other parts of Trøndelag. It is important to be aware the geological features of our urban, day-to-day landscape, where we spend most of our time", explains project manager and researcher Tine Larsen Angvik of the Geological Survey of Norway (NGU).
For this reason, geologists from NGU have set out to collect and investigate potential geological attractions along the sidewalks and paths in the centre of the city. This work will allow them to expand a database for geological heritage and create a digital map with a 360-degree experience, which includes images, information and fun facts.
Glacial History
This project is part of the "Geological Resources in Trøndelag" programme, where Trøndelag County and NGU work together to get a better overview of the area’s geological resources.
"We have chosen well-known sites that are of special value to the community - and for science," explains Gurli Meyer while photographing the shoreline in Bymarka, Trondheim. The shoreline extended much farther inland after the last glaciation, over 175 metres above the current sea level after the ice disappeared and before the land began slowly to rise.
"When the virtual presentation is complete, we expect that a viewer could use a mobile service that allows them to click on the shoreline and follow a path, from the comfort of their living room or out in the landscape. They can enjoy a 360 degree experience of these geological sites and read about sea level changes, glaciations and land uplift", says Meyer.
Facades contain fossils
Other places highlighted include Nidaros Cathedral, an old toll booth, St. Clement’s Church, Krypt Cathedral, Gåsaparken, St Olav's Cathedral and the seafront between Brattøra and Ila.
"And we must not forget the stone in what was called Telegrapher's new building in Kongens Gate, which currently houses a shopping centre," said researcher Morten Smelror. The lower part of the facade is lined with limestone from Porsgrunn.
"The limestone contains many well-visible fossils, such as corals, sea lilies, Bryozoa, stromatoporides, and armpits," he says. "425 million years ago, this limestone was part of a coral reef that was located in warm waters a piece south of the equator."
Approximately 130 million years after the limestone reef was formed, it was hardened by the heat of volcanic activity, remnants of which can be found today at the Oslo Rift. The hardened limestone is suitable for facades.
Modern heritage
Situated on the harbour, Trondheim’s new Powerhouse represents a modern form of geological heritage. The world's northernmost energy-positive building captures solar energy using large south-facing panels. The 18,200 M2 office building produces more than twice the amount of electricity that it needs. In an average year, Powerhouse can produce an energy surplus equivalent to 30 single-family houses.
"There's a lot of things to look at. According to the plan, we will explore beyond Trondheim, too. We are in the process of developing a concept for Bergstaden Røros, and possibly along the the salmon river Orkla", informs project leader Tine Larsen Angvik.
