The big rock at the summit of Trollstein has not been placed there by giant Trolls, as the name would indicate – it is rather a part of a sandstone layer which can be found all over the area. It can also be found on the ridges of Nordenskiöldfjellet and Karl Bayfjellet, look around! This sandstone layer, called Battfjellet Formation, lies on top of black mudrocks that are easily weathered, therefore the cliff-forming appearance. The Battfjellet Formation was deposited some 45-50 million years ago as material transported by rivers to a coast line – a delta. If you look at it in detail, you will see ripples, dunes, and maybe folded layers, that were deformed shortly after deposition, possibly due to an earthquake. The rivers came from a mountain range that existed in the west of what today is Svalbard. The folded remnants of these mountains can still be seen along the west coast of Spitzbergen, the peaky appearance giving the name to the island.
The Longyearbyen Field Guide
We are a group of scientists and Svalbardians who want to share our knowledge about the vicinity of Longyearbyen with you. This app is non-commercial and meant for locals, guides, tourists and everyone interested in science.
It is initially based on the book “The Geology of Longyearbyen” and supported by the Svalbard environmental protection fund, The University Centre in Svalbard, Store Norske Spitsbergen Kulkompani and HDpublish.
We appreciate all of the voluntary contributions and support from all authors and initiators for making this app possible.
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