Anticline of Durbuy, Geological formation in Durbuy, Belgium
The anticline of Durbuy is a rock formation from the Middle Frasnian period containing marine limestone that forms a curved arch-like structure. The layers are clearly visible from the Ourthe River and display the interior of folded rock beds.
This rock structure was first scientifically documented in 1807, marking an important advancement in understanding the geology of the region. The discovery of the folded structure helped scientists grasp how the Earth's crust moves and deforms.
Locals know the rock as "Al Rotche al Falèye" in Walloon, and the square facing it is named Place du Grand Anticlinal. The rock is one of 72 geosites of the Famenne-Ardenne UNESCO Global Geopark, labelled in 2018. In 2024 it was the only Belgian site in the IUGS top 100 of world geological heritage sites.
The site is accessible year-round and lies within the UNESCO Global Geopark Famenne-Ardenne, where geological information is available. A visit works best when you are already exploring the area, as the formation is visible directly from the river.
In 2024 the site was the only Belgian one in the top 100 of the world's geological heritage list drawn up by the International Union of Geological Sciences. It is also one of the 72 geosites of the Famenne-Ardenne UNESCO Global Geopark, though it is not on Durbuy's list of protected built heritage.
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