Casse Déserte

This unique arid landscape has had a special formation. During the Mesozoic era (-250 to -65 million years ago), sediments settled at the bottom of the Thetys Ocean and formed layers of sedimentary rocks. 40 million years ago, 2 layers, one from the Triassic period (-250 million years ago) and the other from the Cretaceous period (-140 million years ago) collided and inversed. The limestones are crushed and become brittle. Subsequently, water rich in sulphate partly dissolve the limestone giving it this decayed appearance and produces a solution which forms a cement and consolidates these rocks. The friability of the rocks and the action of freeze-thaw climate continue to fuel the screes.