Structural development of Maglevandsfald: a key to understanding the glaciotectonic architecture of Møns Klint, SE Denmark

Abstract

The Møns Klint Glaciotectonic Complex (Fig. 1) exposed in the N–S-trending chalk cliff on the east coast of the island of Møn in south-east Denmark is one of the most famous glaciotectonic geosites in the world. People of all nationalities are attracted to the site, which has more than 300 000 visitors per year. Many of them may not realise the uniqueness of the glaciotectonic framework, and are probably more fascinated by the spectacular view of the white cliff and chalk peaks separated by the deep green gorges. However, without the glaciotectonic deformation the cliffs would never have formed. Instead the Cretaceous chalk would still have been resting horizontally below the seabed, covered by glaciofluvial sand, glaciolacustrine clay and clayey till.