A virtual education tour of Cranfield in Mourne Gullion Strangford aspiring UNESCO Global Geopark.
The Mourne Gullion Strangford Aspiring UNESCO Global Geopark takes in the scenic areas of the Mourne Mountains, the Ring of Gullion and Strangford and Lecale. A stunning backdrop to some remarkable people and places. Forged by nature, torn apart by volcanic activity and sculpted by ice.
UNESCO Global Geoparks are areas with internationally important rocks and landscapes, managed responsibly for tourism, conservation and education. UNESCO Global Geoparks build on this foundation by integrating other aspects of heritage such as archaeology, history, culture and biodiversity. Collaborating with local communities to drive sustainable economic development and conservation. Together, they make it a better place to work, live and visit.
The Mourne Gullion Strangford Aspiring UNESCO Global Geopark has a story of over 400 million years of geological history. It charts the closure of the Iapetus Ocean and the fusing of two parts into what we now know as the island of Ireland. It tracks its passage through tropical latitudes, the birth of the North Atlantic Ocean, and finally the shaping of landscape by ice during the last glaciation. A remarkable geological diversity within a relatively small geographical area makes it an ideal outdoor classroom for all ages.
To accompany this video a suite of resources are available online for seven field sites within the Mourne Gullion Strangford Aspiring UNESCO Global Geopark. Designed to equip post-primary school teachers with the information and knowledge to lead field visits to each of these sites. Also providing materials for students to carry out activities in the field. Visit mournegullionstrangfordgeopark.com to access these resources.
