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POST-CONGRESS
FIELDTRIP

OPHIOLITIC BELT -NORTHERN ALBANIA

11-12-th OCTOBER 2013

TIRANA, ALBANIA,
January-February, 2013

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AUTHORS:
Afat SERJANI
(President of Geoheritage Society)
Alfred FRASHRI
(Faculty of Geology and Mining, Polytechnic University of Tirana)
Salvatore BUSHATI
(Academy of Sciences of Albania)
Layout:
Enkelejda Misha

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II. A REVIEW OF GEOPHYSICAL EXPLORATION AND

GEOPHYSICAL INVESTIGATION IN ALBANIA

III. THE MAIN GEOLOGICAL FEATURES OF ALBANIA

- A review of tectonic zones of Albanides
-External zone.
-Internal zones. Mirdita ophiolite zone
-Oil and gas-bearing of Albania

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I. ALBANIA
-Geographical position of Albania
-Climate and relief
-Population
-The Capital
-Getting to Albania

CONTENTS

IV. GEOTRIP
24
-Stop 1: Rubik
-Stop 2: Fushe Dukagji-Kalimash. Ultrabasic massif of Kuks. 28
-Stop 3: Copper deposit and volcano-sedimentary series in
Gjegjani
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-Stop 4: Kala e Dodes. Regional Geology: Korabi and Mirdita
regions.
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-Stop 5: Mali Bardh. Salt dome of Peshkopi
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-Stop 6: Bulqiza. Bulqiza ultramafic massif and Chromite Deposit
of Bulqiza
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-Stop 7: Qaf Buall
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-Stop 8: Cerruja Village, contact of tectonite and cumulate
sequences.
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-Stop 9: Shkopeti Gorge, Skenderbeg ultrabasic massif of western
belt.
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V. REFERENCES
SUPPLEMENT:
1. Physical-geographical Map of Albania
2. Geological Map of Republic of Albania (scale 1: 200 000,
1983).
3. Geological structure of earth's crust and upper mantle based
On seismological studies (Koiu S.1989).
4. Bouguer Anomalies Map of Albania (Bushati S. 1988).
5. Total Magnetic Map of Albania (Bushati S. 1998).
6. Heat Flow Density Map of Albania (Frashri A. et al., 2004)
7. Geothermal Gradient Map of Albania (Frashri A. et. al.,
2004)
8. Geothermal Zones Map in Albania (Frashri A. et al., 2004)
9. Seismic line, Peadriatic Depression (Frashri A. et al.,
2009).

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ALBANIA
GEOGRAPHICAL POSITION
In the heart of the Mediterranean, on the Adriatic and Ionian Seas,
both a South-Eastern European and a Western Balkan country,
Albania locates between the geographical coordinates 39 16'
latitude and 42 39' longitudes. Its surface area is 28.748 km. It is
bordered by Greece to the south-east, Montenegro to the north,
Kosovo to the northeast, and the Republic of Macedonia to the east.
It has a coast on the Adriatic Sea to the west and on the Ionian Sea
to the southwest. It is less than 72 km (45 miles) from Italy, across
the Strait of Otranto which links the Adriatic Sea to the Ionian Sea.
The average altitude is 708 m above the sea level.

Fig. 1. Geographical
position of Albania

CLIMATE
Like other Mediterranean countries, Albania has characteristically
warm, dry summers and mild, wet winters. Local climatic variation can
occur, however, from one region to another. The western part of the
country, which is under the influence of warm maritime air from the Adriatic
and Ionian seas, has more-moderate temperatures than the rest of Albania.
The eastern part of the country, on the other hand, is mainly under the
influence of continental air and is characterized by mild summers (owing to
the high elevations) and cold winters.
Rainfall in Albania is abundant, but it occurs unevenly across the
country and throughout the year. Average annual precipitation varies from
more than 100 inches (2,500 mm) in the North Albanian Alps to less than
30 inches (760 mm) along much of the eastern border. The southwestern
part of the country suffers from summer droughts.

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Albania has a mountainous geography. About three-fourths of its

territory consists of mountains and hills with elevations of more than 650
feet (200 metres) above sea level; the remainder consists of coastal and
alluvial lowlands. The North Albanian Alps, an extension of the Dinaric
Alps, cover the northern part of the country. With elevations approaching
8,900 feet (2,700 metres), this is the most rugged part of the country. It is
heavily forested and sparsely populated.
In contrast to the Alps, the central mountain region, which extends
north-south from the Drin River to the central Devolli and lower Osumi
rivers, is more densely populated and has a generally less rugged terrain. In
the region's easternmost portion, the imposing gypsum block of Albania's
highest peak, Mount Korabi, rises to 9,030 feet (2,752 metres).
South of the central mountain region is a series of northwest-southeasttrending mountain ranges with elevations up to 8,200 feet (2,500 metres).
Composed of limestone rock, the ranges are separated by wide valleys.
Unlike the Alps and the central region, which are covered with dense
forests, the mountains of the southern region are either bare or have a thin
covering of Mediterranean shrubs, oaks, and pines. They serve essentially
as pasture for livestock.
Stretching along the Adriatic coast over a distance of nearly 125 miles
(200 km) and penetrating some 30 miles (50 km) into the interior are the
low, fertile plains of western Albania. This is the most important agricultural
and industrial region of the countryand the most densely populated.

RELIEF

POPULATION
Albania has one of the most homogeneous populations in Europe. Based
on the preliminary 2011 Census results, the total population of Albania is
2,831,741. The two main subgroups of Albanians are the Gegs (Ghegs) in
the north and the Tosks in the south. The total population is composed of
1,421,810 males (50.2%) and 1,409,931 females (49.8%). 53.7% of the
population lives in urban areas and 46.3% in rural areas.

THE CAPITAL
Tirana, the capital of Albania, is an ancient city with an early history
enriched by the interplay of cultural forces originating in the Islamic and
European Christian worlds.
There are a number of hypotheses concerning the origin of the name. One is
that it is from the word 'Theranda' that Greek and Latin sources employ to
refer to the area, after the term 'te ranat' used by the inhabitants, meaning
'fallen material', in reference to the composition of the terrain out of hard
earth swept down by water from the nearby mountains.
It is from 'Tirkan', the name used by the sixth century Byzantine
historian Prokop to refer to a castle, first built in the first century BC, on
Mount Dajti, and the ruins of which are extant.
It is from 'tyros', the old Greek word for 'dairy', on the hypothesis that it
was in the field there that the shepherds of surrounding areas gathered to
trade dairy products.
An often-repeated explanation is that 'Tirana' was so named by
Sulejman Pasha, the Turkish military leader at the time of Turkey's
conquest of Persia in the 17th century, after Tehran, the capital of Persia
(now Iran). Such a theory would, however, seem to be contradicted by the
evidence of Tirana's name in its current form appearing in a 1418 Venetian
document.

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A further 'spin' on the Sulejman Pasha idea is that when he was at the
location of what became the city of which he is considered to have been
the founder, he came across an elderly woman who, when he asked her
what she was doing, replied, 'Po tir an': 'spinning silk'.
Records of the first land registrations under the Ottomans in 1431-32
reveal that Tirana then consisted of 60 inhabited areas, with nearly 1000
houses and 7300 inhabitants.
Marin Barleti, the first to write a history of Albania (and himself of
Albanian descent), tells us that in the 15th century there were 'Tirana e
Madhe' and 'Tirana e Vogl' (Great and Small Tirana). Barleti, a Catholic
priest and scholar, was largely responsible, through his biography of him,
for creating what became the cult of Iskander Bey, the title (in Turkish)
(rendered in Albanian as 'Skenderbeu', and frequently anglicized as
'Skanderbeg') given to Gjergj Kastrioti, an Albanian nobleman who, after
being forcibly brought to Adrianople as a youth and given military training,
distinguished himself in a number of campaigns for the Ottomans, and
was promoted to the rank of general, but then returned to Albania to
liberate it, and spent the next 25 years, until his death, leading a
successful guerilla resistance against the forces of the Turkish empire.
Skenderbeu continues to be the national hero of Albania.
The 1583 registration records inform us that at that time Tirana had
110 inhabited areas, 2900 houses and 20,000 inhabitants. When
Sulejman Pasha established the city in 1614, his first constructions were
a mosque, a bakery and a hamam (Turkish sauna). Two centuries later,
control of the city was won by the Toptani family of Kruja. It was noted
that the two oldest neighbourhoods were Mujos and Pazari, between the
geographical centre and Elbasani Street, on either side of the Lana River.
The construction, by the best artisans in the country, of the mosque in
the centre of Tirana, called the Mosque of Ethem Beu, was begun in in
1789 by Molla Beu of Petrela (a locale in Albania). It was finished in 1821
by his son, who was also Sulejman Pasha's grand-nephew. The Clock
Tower was started by Haxhi Et'hem Beu around 1821-22, and was
finished with the help of the richest families of Tirana. Its installation was
the work of the Tufina family. In 1928 the Albanian state bought a modern
clock in Germany, and the tower was raised to a height of 35 metres. The
clock was damaged during World War II, but was restored to full function
in July 1946.
The Orthodox Church of Saint Prokop was built in 1780.
The Catholic Church of Saint Maria was constructed in 1865 at the
expense of the Austrian-Hungarian Emperor, Franc Josef. The Tabakve
and Terzive bridges (respectively in front of the Parliament building and on
Elbasani Street) date from the beginning of the 20th century. The mosque
that is also the tomb of Kapllan Hysa (near the monument to Ushtari I
Panjohur ('the unknown soldier') was built in 1816.
The Library was established in 1922, with 5000 volumes.
The Fortress of Petrela, 12 kilometres from Tirana, dates from the
fourth century BC. It took its current form in the 13th century, under the
rule of Topiaj, and later became the property of the Kastriotis.
On 8 February, 1920 Tirana was made the temporary capital by the
Congress of Lushnja, and acquired that status permanently on 31
December, 1925.
Since 1925, when they were banned in Turkey, Tirana has been the
primary centre in the world of the Bektashis, an order of dervishes who
take their name from Haji Bektash, a Sufi saint of the 13th and 14th

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centuries. (It was the same Haji Bektash who blessed the Janissaries, the
famed Ottoman fighting corps that originally comprised non-Muslim
conscripts, many of them Albanians.)
The first regulatory plan of the city was compiled in 1923 by Estef
Frashri. Durrsi Street was opened in 1922, and was called Nana
Mbretnesh (Mother Queen). Many houses and surrounding properties
were demolished to make way for it. The existing parliamentary building
was raised in 1924, and first served as a club for officers. It was there, in
September 1928, that Ahmet Zogu proclaimed the monarchy.
The centre of Tirana was the project of Florestano de Fausto and
Armando Brasini, well known architects of the Mussolini period in Italy. The
Palace of Brigades (of the former monarch), the ministries buildings, the
National Bank and the Municipality are their work.
The Dshmoret e Kombit (National Martyrs) Boulevard was built in
1930 and given the name Zogu I Boulevard. In the communist period, the
part from Sknderbej Square up to the train station was named Stalin
Boulevard.
The Palace of Culture (Pallati I Kulturs), where the Theatre of Operas
and Ballet and the National Library stand, was completed in 1963 on the
site of the former Trade of Tirana building, with the first brick being placed
by Soviet president Nikita Hrushov in 1959.The monument to Sknderbeu,
raised in 1968, is the work of Odhise Paskali in collaboration with Andrea
Mana and Janaq Pao. It commemorated the 500th anniversary of the
death of the national hero.
The Academy of Sciences building was completed in April 1972.
The Gallery of Figurative Arts was created in 1976, and includes around
3200 works by Albanian and foreign artists.
The National Historical Museum was built in 1981.
The International Cultural Centre, formerly the Enver Hoxha Museum,
popularly referred to as 'the Pyramid', was inaugurated in 1988.
In 2000 the centre of Tirana, from the central campus of Tirana
University up to Sknderbej Square, was declared the place of Cultural
Assembly, with special claims to state protection. In the same year the area
began a process of restoration under the name 'Return to Identity'.

GETTING TO ALBANIA
Entry by air
All international air arrivals enter through Mother Theresa International
Airport, located 17 km northwest of Tirana. Linkage with the city is
provided through a shuttle bus service, the Tirana Rinas Express, running
between Skanderbeg Square and Mother Theresa Airport. Shuttle buses
depart every hour at the top of the hour, with an approximate cost of 2
Euros. Taxi service available at all times, taxi fares mounting to
approximately 20 Euros.
Entry by roadways
From Montenegro
- Through Hani i Hotit and Murriqan-Sukobina. The first road links the
Northern City of Shkodra and Lake Shkodra with Podgorica, while the
second links Shkodra with Ulcinj Montenegro.
- Recently opened is Vermoshi, which links the region of Kelmendi in
Albania with Plava and Gucia (Gusinje) in Montenegro.

From Kosovo
- Through Morina pass, which links Kuks, Albania, with Pristina, Kosovo
- Morina which links Tropoja with Gjakova
- Qaf Prushi, which links Kruma with Gjakova.

From Macedonia
- Qafe Thana pass links Pogradec, Librazhd and Elbasan to Struga.
- From Tushemisht, at the South-eastern end of Lake Ohrid, leading from
Pogradec to Saint Naum and Oher.
- From Bllata, leading from Peshkopi to great Dibra.
- From Gorica the road leads from the northern shores of Lake Prespa to
Otoshev and other parts of Macedonia.

From Greece
-Through Kapshtica leading from
Kora to Thessalonica.
- From Kakavija leading from
Gjirokastra to Janina.
- At Qafe Boti Konispol is connected
to Filat
- Tre Urat, connecting Permet with
Konica.
Entry by Sea
Albania can be accessed by sea
through its main ports:
Durrs: the Italian ports of Ancona,
Bari, Brindisi and Trieste
Vlora: the Italian port of Brindisi
Shngjin: the Italian port of Bari
Saranda: the Greek Island of Corfu

Fig. 2. Field trip Map (Albania)

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Albania, rich in mineral resources such as chrome, copper, iron-nickel,

coal, oil and gas, has a long history in the realm of mineral resources, their
extraction and processing, which is based upon application of many
complex geological, geophysical and geochemical methods.

II. A REVIEW OF GEOPHYSICAL EXPLORATION

AND INVESTIGATION IN ALBANIA

Fig. 3. Important oil

and gas reservoirs and
solid minerals deposits
in Albania

Pirusts, a well-known Illyrian tribe (168 BC), were involved in copper

processing, though the first oil discovery and processing began in Kuova in
1920 and was followed by the first chromium extraction. Geophysical
studies and research have been carried out for more than 70 years now.
Gravity and magnetic surveying and vertical electrical soundings for
geophysical researches were applied by Italian companies between 1930
and 1940.
These industries were developed with the training of young specialists.
Following the initial geophysical research, chromite deposits explorations

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were undertaken in 1950, with various geophysical methods applied: i)

gravity survey, ii) vertical electrical soundings, iii) well logging, iv) seismic
surveys in Peri-Adriatic (in 1952), v) geoelectrical surveys for copper
exploration (1953), vi) magnetic surveys (1957) and gravity surveys
(1958) for chromite exploration, vii) radiometric surveys (1959), and lastly
viii) geothermal studies (1989). For fifty years, geophysical research was
undertaken by Soviet and East German geophysicists. A two-year
cooperation with Chinese geophysicists in the 1970s followed geophysical
surveys first carried out in 1961 by Albanian geophysicists.
Radiometric studies and exploration, tools to address the solution of
many environmental problems and measurements of natural radioactivity,
were first carried out in Albania in 19581959. Implementing radiometric
gamma spectrometric determinations of radioactive elements U, Th and K
was undertaken through an international project, while a regional survey for
the Geochemical Atlas of Albania (unrelated to uranium research) and
regional radiometric studies according to total gamma radiation,
radiometric studies and research outcomes were revealed only after 1990.
In addition, the study Natural Radioactivity of Albania was carried out. The
Albanian Seismological Network, part of the European and Global Network
through the International Central Bureau of Seismology in Strasbourg,
France, was set up in 1979. The 1980s saw an increase in the number of
seismological studies undertaken in Albania, meant to address engineering
problems and complex seismological-engineering and geotechnical
engineering micro-zoning of Albania's cities. Cooperation in the area of
seismic risk with the Assembly of European Council of Seismology followed
and many important projects in this area were drafted in cooperation with
UNESCO. Seismological, seismological-engineering, neotectonic and
geological risks maps were compiled and published under the National
Programme for Research and Development framework. The seismological
studies under the supervision of the Institute of Seismology and the
Academy of Sciences of Albania cover the following fields: i)
seismotectonic, ii) seismology and, iii) earthquake engineering. The first
seismic station was established in 1968 at the Chair of Geophysics, Faculty
of Geology and Mining, while the Seismological Institute was founded in
1973 by the Academy of Sciences followed by the setting up of thirteen
seismological networks.
Geophysics studies in Albania gradually developed as complex methods
with the application of various tools such as surveys and technological
interpretation, geology and geochemistry. From 19721986 there was
introduction of various equipment, while modern technology was applied in
the area of seismic, gravity, geoelectric and magnetic surveys, as well as in
radiometric studies and well logging. The year 1973 registered the
greatest amount of oil production, some 2,250,000 tons. Two specialized
geophysical expeditions involving engineering geophysics (1983) and
water research (1980) were organized by the Geological and Geodesy
Enterprise (Ministry of Construction) and Hydrogeological Enterprise of
Tirana, respectively. By 1990, 49.5 million tons of oil, about 12 million
cubic metres of natural gas, and 47 million tons of coal had been extracted.
For the year 1984, economic capacities of the Albanian Mining and
Petroleum Industries were as follows: 1,007,000 tons of copper minerals
extracted, 12,600 tons of blister copper and 960,000 tons of chromite
processed. In the chromium extraction industry, the average income was
120 million USD. About 20 million tons of copper minerals and 21 million
tons of chromites were extracted by the Albanian Mining Industry.
Offshore seismic and geoelectrical surveys on the Albanian Adriatic Sea

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Shelf for oil and gas exploration started in 1982. In 1989, the Geophysical
Society of Albania (GSA) and the Albanian Association of Geoscientists
and Engineers (AAGE) were established and became members of the
European Association of Geoscientists and Engineers (EAGE) and the
Balkan Geophysical Society (BGS).
Efforts have been made to adapt geophysics to the current market
economy. The wide application of geophysics in other areas and
geophysical surveys requiring modern equipment and software is important
to geological explorations and studies. Chromite, asbestos, bauxites,
heavy, rare and precious mineral explorations require geotechnical and
environment investigations, hydrogeological research and application of
natural electrical field analysis to identify oil reserves. There is a meaningful
approach between geology and geophysics, but lack of interaction causes
deterioration. In this context, the education process in this area plays a
great role. In 1952, the first two graduate geophysicist technicians
returned from overseas studies, followed by geophysical engineering and
post-graduate courses in geophysics dating to 1961. Applied geophysics
had already started being taught at the Geological of Department of the
Polytechnic Institute of Tirana in 1955. Previously, engineering studies
lasted five years, with 12 year postgraduate courses and a three-year
doctorate. A total of 303 geophysics engineers have graduated. In
addition, many physicists have qualified as geophysicists,22 have gone on
to receive master's degree, 48 geophysicist engineers have gone on to
receive a Doctor of Science and 7 have gone on to receive professorship.
From 1961 to 2008, the curricula have been compiled and continuously
improved to adapt to a situation of scientific technological complexity in the
area of research and geophysical studies and exploration. Currently,
courses in exploration of oil and gas reservoirs and other solid minerals
deposits, hydrogeological research, engineering and environment studies,
apply geophysics.
Seismic Zoning Map of Albania (1972), Catalogue of Earthquakes in
Albania (1975) and Seismological Zoning of Albania (1979) are helpful to
the geophysicists who carry out seismological investigations.
Along with the reformation in the education system, the year 2008
marked a reformation of the Albanian Geological Service, with renovation
of the company. Several specialists were employed in the newly
established Institute of Earth Sciences, while some others remained in the
Geophysics Unit of the Albanian Geological Service. In addition, due to the
reformation process in the education and scientific area, it became part of
the Institute of Earth Sciences in the Polytechnic University of Tirana.

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Tab. 1. Application fields and geophysical methods applied in Albania

GEOPHYSICS

Seismology

Applied

Geothermic

Application fields
Mining
Engineering
Regional
&
Environment
Seismic reflection
++
++
+
Electrical
+
++
++
+
Gravity
+
+
+
++
Magnetic
+
+
++
Well logging
++
+
+
+
Radiometric
+
+
+
Earthquakes
1. Seismological Surveys Network
2. Seismological zoning of Albania
Engineering
1. Seismic Micro zoning and seismic risk
evaluation
2.Seismic monitoring of the hydropower plant
dams
1. Geothermal studies
2. Geothermal energy platform and use scenarios.
Methods

Oil & gas

++ Principal method

Geophysical exploration and research has been carried out in the oil and
gas seismic and gravity enterprise in Fier (Bioku, 2004; Frashri et al.,
2010), where 70 geophysicists engineers, four seismic teams, one
gravimetric and geoelectrical team, a marine expedition and seismic
geological and geoelectrical teams were involved. Consequently, about
2,500 km/year of seismic profiling with multiple coverage has been
undertaken. It has also been undertaken by the oil and gas well logging
enterprise at Patosi, where 30 geophysicist engineers and interpretation
groups were involved. In addition electric, radioactive, sonic and gas
logging was undertaken and rocks submitted to physical property analysis
in the laboratory.
Well logging groups have undertaken integrated geophysical studies
exploring deep wells for oil and gas.
At the geophysical enterprise in Tirana 106 mining geophysicist
engineers have been involved, and 3540 km2/year mapped at scales of
1:10,000, 1:5,000 and 1:2,000 due to the efforts of the geoelectrical
teams. Generally, the same area was submitted to both gravity and
magnetic survey.
Efforts made in carrying out integrated regional geophysics studies in
the area of Albanides exploration have discovered ten oil and gas reservoirs,
eleven copper deposits and many other solid minerals of great importance.
Papers of distinguished scientific value have been published either in
national (637 papers) or in international journals (33 papers) and 100
papers given in different international meetings (Bioku, 2004; Frashri et
al., 2010; Papa, 2001; Rama, 1995). The monographs Geothermy of
Albanides (1990), Geothermal Atlas of Albania (1995), Atlas of
Geothermal Resources in Albania (2004), Geothermal Atlas of Europe
(1992) published by Geographisch-Kartographische Anstalt Gotha,
Germany, Atlas of Geothermal Resources in Europe, European Commission
(2002), Geothermal energy resources in Albania and platform for their use,

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(2010) provide information on the results of geothermal studies and

research.
In the last two decades, geophysical methods have been applied widely
in different fields including geotechnology, hydrogeological research,
micro-zoning of the main cities of Albania, geothermal studies and
evaluation of geothermal energy, geo-environment studies and impact
assessments, archaeology. Joint projects with the Academy of Sciences of
Albania and other Albanian and foreign institutions have helped the recent
development of geology in Albania. Geotechnical and environmental
geophysical investigations consisting of natural geologic hazards
evaluation are unfortunately not fully realizable, due to the absence of
appropriate technology.
To advance further assessment of the current situation and
development of strategic goals is essential. These are outlined below in the
context of the role Geophysics has played in various socio-economic areas
of the country.
Application of geophysical methods such as seismic investigations and
gravity surveys in the area of integrated oil & gas exploration is of great
importance. The mapping illustrates the regions of possible oil and gas
exploration compiled. In addition to gravity surveys, vertical electric
soundings have been applied. In a few cases direct search for oil and gas
reserves, electric field, radiometric and magnetic surveys were applied.
Research on deep oil and gas has been carried with integrated well logging
methods.
From 1952 to 1970, oscillographic recording, manual processing and
seismic data interpretation were carried out in the lowlands. From 1970 to
1978, analogue magnetic recording, multiple coverage profiling, and
surveys were carried out in mountainous areas characterized by
complicated geology. From 1980 to 1990, digital recording and processing
of seismic data, multiple coverage and improvement of data processing
were applied, but since 1990, the geophysical exploration of oil and gas has
fallen. Seismic explorations are currently being carried out by foreign
companies.
Gravity surveys at scales of 1:100,000, 1: 50,000 and 1:25,000 have
been undertaken for the whole territory for oil and gas bearing rocks.
Identification of the top structure of limestone formations, evaluation of
sandstone content within onshore Neogene molasses and on the Albanian
Adriatic shelf, vertical electric soundings with a depth of investigation of
about 2.5 km have been applied since 1978.
From 1978 to 1982, integrated methodsnatural electric field, magnetic
and radiometric surveys for direct exploration of oil and gas reservoirswere
successfully applied.
In 1960, geophysics undertook a full quantitative and qualitative
interpretation of logging data, performance of the well logging, and
determination of the physical properties of terrigenous productive horizons.
Despite these developments, deep-well drillings in the Albanian Oil and Gas
Industry have stopped, despite some Albpetrol wells.
Geophysics also plays an undisputable role in the area of integrated
exploration for solid minerals. Application of methods for integrated
geological geophysical geochemical exploration for solid minerals depends
upon the type of prospected mineral, the stage of the search and the issues
to be addressed. Two main methods have been applied for such
exploration. The first method is direct research for solid mineral deposits
such as copper sulphide, polymetallic, and chrome ores, including

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sophisticated scientific-technical geophysical exploration for copper ores

deposits since 1930 and chrome resources since 1958. Improvement
seen in research and exploration of geophysical copper deposits is of great
benefit. But the applicability of geophysical methods depends on ore body
location, and the mineralization type.
The main prospecting method employed from 19531960 with
geoelectrical surveys and the discovery of subsurface earth materials was
made applying geophysical self-potential and resistivity profiling for
massive and shallow ore bodies, where the redox phenomenon occurs.
Geoelectric surveys helped discover copper deposits in Gjegjani and in
Tui, as well as some small ore bodies in other zones. From 19731989,
geophysical exploration was based on the application of induced
polarization, the main exploration method used for deep level exploration,
as well as the self-potential method and resistivity profiling for detailing
and selection from mineralization zones of massive ore bodies.
During the detailed exploration phase, the induced polarization
method, EM profiling, the radio wave floodlighting method, mise--lamasse method, the borehole vectorial magnetic surveys and the electrical
and gamma-gamma logging were applied, while the development of the
Real Section IP/Resistivity started in 1978.
An integrated geological-geophysical-geochemical exploration of
chrome deposits has been well developed and integrated methods for
ground and underground surveys set up. Geophysical methods have made
a great contribution to the discovery of series of chromite deposits. In
1989 alone, in the ultrabasic massif of Bulqiza, 356 boreholes were
planned to detect geophysical anomalies of 35 objects, with 145 of these
boreholes detecting mineralized horizons.
The geophysical complex consists of surface mapping, applying
gravity, magnetic and IP methods, extensively used for direct chromite
deposit research. Underground geophysical surveys were carried out
about the area of mine works and boreholes. Geophysical data on
boreholes were obtained applying electrical and radiation
(density/selective gammagamma and neutron activation) logging.
Related to petro-physical properties of ore and variable surrounding
rocks, sometimes overlapping each other, appropriate alternation between
direct search for ore bodies and geophysical methods used for
geophysical-structural mapping and underground surveys would be useful
to improve the level research of chrome deposits. The outcome of
geophysical research for chrome ore bodies strongly depends on the
aforementioned properties, despite the small number of searches
undertaken compared to those for copper ore bodies.
Exploration activities helped find the unique values of the physical
properties of ores and surrounding rocks. Consequently, the theory that
several minerals and rocks have the same magnitude of a physical property
or feature does not hold true: e.g. good electrical conductors include not
only massive sulphides, but kaolin and clays as well. Therefore, a single
geophysical method and a physical feature of the medium are insufficient
to solve the problem: the solution requires deep knowledge of the complex
of different physical properties. Consequently, exploration has been
integrated, with a complex of geophysical methods.
False signals and spurious anomalies are avoidable if perturbations
caused by topography, variation in thickness and composition of the
overlying beds are properly considered with mathematical methods,
computer data processing and interpretation (first applied here in 1973).

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Mathematical and physical modelling processes of geoelectric, gravity and

magnetic methods, and inversion in geophysics helped compile algorithms
and software for data processing and interpretation.
For eight years, exploration of copper sulphide massive and
disseminated ore deposits reaching a depth of 700800 m were carried out
using induced the polarization method and underground surveys.
Mathematical modelling is being extensively used in geophysics both in
delineation of the structure underneath the earth's surface and to
understand the processes leading to tectonic deformation and evolution of
the earth.
Improvements made both in the methodology applied and
organizational work in the area of geological-geophysical survey further
promote the development of geophysics in Albania. Setting up teams
composed of specialists in geology, geophysics and geochemistry to
search for copper deposits led to mappings carried out at a scale of
1:5,000 and detailed studies of anomalies at a scale of 1:2,000.
Methodological criteria moving from known towards unknown areas on
which implementation of geophysical methods in the area of mineral
resources in general, and for mineral ore bodies in particular, helped
discover fields consisting of eleven copper deposits located at different
topographic levels down to several hundred metres in depth. In the mid1980s, discrimination of massive ore bodies at great depth among
mineralized zones and discrimination of anomalies caused by a
superimposed effect of sulphide ore bodies and nearby serpentines were
individualized. The second method applied is geophysical structural
mapping along with geological mapping in order to identify the geological
settings of perspective zones and ore control factors. Geophysical studies
are a means to enable detection of tectonic zones and their relationship. In
this complicated situation, the outcome of geophysics research is of great
benefit, despite necessary continuous improvement of methodology
required. Since 1990, geophysical exploration of copper and chrome
deposits with minimal field volumes has been carried out by foreign
companies in Albania. Gravity and magnetic mapping at scales varying
from 1:25,000 to 1:200,000 have been undertaken. In addition, petrophysical studies have attracted the attention of researchers. A number of
magnetic and gravity surveys have been carried out in Albania. One survey
expanded the field of use of gravity and magnetic methods for solid ores
deposits exploration, including copper, chromium, and iron-nickel,
bauxites, asbestos, heavy mineral placers, studying magnetic properties
and density of minerals and rocks by different authors. A second method
built magnetic and gravitational country networks and connected these to
international networks (Bushati S.et al., 1988). A third method set up
algorithms and standard software for processing and interpreting of
magnetic and gravity data. The major results are presented in the Bouguer
Anomalies of the Gravity Field and Magnetic Field of Albania Maps, at a
scale of 1:200,000 (Bushati S. et al., 1988; 1998). Finally,
palaeomagnetic studies have been carried out all across Albania, in line
with bilateral projects with Austria, France, and Greece (Kisel K. et al.,
1991; Mauritsch H. et al., 1993; 1994; 1995; Frasheri A., Bushati S.
1996).
Modern technological developments and the progress made in science
create the means to address many questions, to adapt the Albanian petrol
and mining industries with the current market economies for oil, gas and
solid minerals explorations and the quality of the country's infrastructure,

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its roads, civil engineering constructions, assessment of geological

hazards, water exploration, etc. Such implementation for geophysical
surveys of shallow depths to detect geotechnical issues, assess the
environmental situation and undertake impact assessments, urban
planning, water exploration, medical geophysics, archaeological research
needs to be brought into trained teams.
Geophysical methods have been applied in situ for seismic and
geoelectric topographies for dam investigation, slope stability evaluation
and landslide, soil and bedrock studies in the construction industry and
sectors of dams, highways, tunnels, etc., in karst areas exploration, quality
assessment of concrete during construction works, for airport runways,
water exploration, in studies of urban and industrial landfills, and for
environmental impact assessments.
REFERENCES
Bioku T. 2004. Historia e eksplorimeve dhe e studimeve gjeologjike n
Shqipri. Akademia e Shkencave e Shqipris. (History of geological
explorations and studies in Albania. Academy of Sciences of Albania,
Tirana.)
Bushati S., Kodra A., Langora Ll. 1994. Ndertimi i hartave krahinore
gravimetrike dhe magnetometrike dhe interpretimi i tyre ne studimin
gjeologjik te Albaniadeve. Bul. Shk. Gjeol. Nr. 1
Frashri A, Bushati S, Nishani P, Lio R. 2010. Gjofizika shqiptare ndr vite.
KLEAN, Tiran. (Albanian Geophysics over the Years. KLEAN, Tirana.)
Papa A, 2001. Bibliography of French Publications on Geology of Albania
and nearby countries. IDSH, Tirana.
Rama M. 1995. Bibliografia e botimeve shqiptare mbi gjeologjin dhe
naftn. Instituti i studimeve gjeologjike dhe e projekteve. Dituria,
Tiran. (Bibliography of Albanian publications on Geology and petrol.
Institute of Geological Studies and Projects. Dituria, Tirana.)

III. THE MAIN GEOLOGICAL FEATURES OF ALBANIA

Albania belongs to the Dinarides-Albaniades-Helenides Arc of the Alpine
Mediterranean Belt. Sedimentary, volcano-sedimentary, evaporites as well
as magmatic, mainly ophiolite sequences could be met throughout the
country. Dating from Tirassic to Eocene and showing a continuous
sedimentation, Albanides consists of external tectonic zones and internal
zones where Mirdita Ophiolite Zone locates. Northwestern Shkodr-Pej
(Scutari-Pec) thrust, geological structures represent the continuation of
Dinarides. It continues south to Greece where Hellenides could be met.
Tectonic zones are northwestwards overthrusted (Fig. 2. Tectonic Map of
Albania).
A review of Albanides External tectonic zones
Sazan-Karaborun zone locates in the westernmost tectonic region of
Albania. From the Late Triassic to the Oligocene, this zone was a platform
area characterized by carbonate sedimentation some thousands meters
thick. Flysch sedimentation process started in Early Miocene.
Rich in oil and gas, from Late Triassic to Middle Liass, the zone thrusted
westward the Karaburun platform.
In addition to Sazan-Karaburun zone, the Ionian zone exhibited a
platform environment. Once rifted in the Liassic age, it became a broad
pelagic basin, where radiolarite, limestone and thin bedded marls with
cherts were deposited up to Late Eocene. Flysch deposits date from

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Oligocene to the Middle Miocene. Evaporites diapers disruption consists of

homogenous sedimentary succession along the deep faults. In Kardhiqi,
Gusmari and Vermiku they are associated with metamorphic and volcanic
tectonic blocks. It is assumed that, during the Triassic, a narrow basin with
passive margins and an oceanic crust of the Red Sea type was created
within the Ionian zone. Evaporites sediments were formed in the rift basin
between Triassic to Eocene. Integrated geological-geophysical
investigations together with deep wells data report that in the Ionian zone,
duplex and imbricate tectonic are observed. The Ionian basin is separated
into several blocks due to traversal tectonic faults.
Kruja zone (K) continues with Dalmate (Dinarides) and in the south with
Gavrova (Hellenides). The Kruja section culminates by Oligocene flysch
overlaying limestone formation, and Miocene flychoid formation.
Dating from Cretaceous to Eocene and developed under an extension
regime, the Krasta-Cukali zone represents a basin characterized by a
continuous pelagic sedimentation overthrusted westwards the Kruja
platform. Argillaceous-sandy-marly flysch deposits composing ophiolitic
material overlay carbonaceous-siliceous formations of Triassic-Jurassic
age. The section continues with Turonian-Mastrichtian limestone and Late
Mastrichtian-Eocene flysch. Some horsts existed during Late TriassicPaleocene period, as evidenced by the Lisna-Spiteni unit.
The Pre-Adriatic Depression (PAD) consists of thick Middle-Late
Miocene and Pliocene molasses, covering the older formations in Kruja and
Ionian regions.
The Albanian-Thessalian inner basin consists of molasses dati from
Eocene to Oligocene and Neogene.
Tectonic zones are G-Gashi zone, A-Albanian Alps, M-Mirdita zone,
KO-Korabi zone, KC-Krasta-Cukali zone; Kr-Kruja zone, I-Ionian zone, SSazani zone; U1-PAD (Peri-Adriatic Depression); U2-Inner depressions
Kruja zone represents a shallow water platform area, with carbonate
sedimentation from the Cretaceous period up to Eocene. The Kruja section
culminates with Oligocene-Miocene flysch, similar as in Ionian zone.
INTERNAL ZONES
Mirdita ophiolite (Hellenides Subpelagonian, Serbia in Dinarides) and
Triassic Jurassic platformic carbonate at the periphery of ophiolite. A
volcano-sedimentary narrow belt dating between Triassic to Jurassic age
outcrop between ophiolites and Triassic
Jurassic carbonates. A
metamorphic sole represented by amphibolites and green schists could be
met at the spot where volcano-sedimentary formation and ultramafic meet
each-other. Ophiolites sedimentary ophiolitic cover consists of radiolarian
cherts of Middle-Upper Jurassic, ophiolitic mlange of Tithonian,
flyschoidal formation of Tithonian-Lower Cretaceous. Iron-nickel
weathering crust and Cretaceous limestone cover the mantle sequences
and oceanic crust in several locations.

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Fig. 4. Tectonic Map

of Albania

In the realm of Albanian ophiolites, the period covering from Triassic to

Jurassic, when the ocean basin between Adria continental margin and
Pelagonian microcontinent opened, is of great importance for the history of
geodynamics. Here, the continental rifting is followed by the Mirdita
oceanic spreading that reaching culmination in the Middle Jurassic.
Albanian ophiolites is the most complete section of in the Mediterranean
covering a surface area of about 4300km2. In addition, they are
characterized by plutonic and volcanogenic sequences of ultrabasic to
intermediate and intermediate-acid composition (Fig. 3). Mirdita ophiolite
with their full sections, are of the greatest interest for laboratory
investigation of magmatic transition between the Mid-Oceanic Ridge and
Premature Island Arc, and for the evaluation of the rival hypothesis
concerning the primary tectonical placing of the ophiolites of the Eastern
Type (Ohnenstetter, 1995). Ophiolite subducted due to boninites in the
eastern Belt of the Albanian ophiolites (Shallo, 1990; Gjei, 2006).

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Petrologic, geochemical and metallogenic data report that Albanian

ophiolites are divided in two the Western and Eastern belts, separated by
transitional formations (Fig. 3. Ophiolite belts). The ophiolite of the
Western Belt is of lhercolite type and the first layer is an ultrabasic mantle,
consisting of lhercolite and harzburgite rocks (Fig. 4). The section
continues with dunite, wherlite, troctolite, gabbro, ferrogabbro, and highTi basaltic pillow lavas of MORB affinity. Middle Jurassic radiolarites cover
the western ophiolitic belt.

Fig. 5. Ophiolitic
massifs of Albania

In the Eastern Belt, the ophiolite is of the harzburgite type and consists
of ultrabasic mantle rich in harzburgite rocks. Dunite, pyroxenite, wherlite,
layered and isotropic gabbro, plagiogranite, a sheeted dyke complex, and
site-basalt, andesite, dacite and rhyolite rocks overlay them. The extrusive
rocks are characterized by a low Ti content. The sheeted dyke complex
could be clearly met in the eastern ophiolite belt. A SE-NW ridge,
subparallel to the ophiolite belt, may be defined by sheeted dyke direction
as well as from the common SE-NW trend measured for the mantle
foliation. However, a traverse ridge direction also existed as is shown by
the dyke trends, layered rocks and mantle foliation. Such tectonic faults
probably occurred due to transform fault activity, which has been of great

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importance for the structural evolution of the ophiolites and related

continental margins. A metamorphic sole, composed of granulite,
amphibolite, garnet micaschists and greenschists facies occurs at the base
of ophiolite sequences. The metamorphic sole, associated with squeezed
serpentinite, was formed during the early stage of deformation. Reddish
chert and the Mirdita mlange (block-bearing argillite) are the oldest
sedimentary cover rocks of the two ophiolitic belts.

Fig. 6. Column
of eastern ophiolite
belt

From Middle Jurassic to Early Cretaceous, a convergence leading to the

intraoceanic subduction-obduction followed by the emplacement of the
ophiolite sequences on the western and eastern continental margins,
belonging to the Adria and Pelagonian microcontinents were of great
impact to Mirdita ocean basin. Sedimentation of the argillite-clastic
deposits and overlaying Late Tithonian-Berriasian ophiolite-bearing flysch
were a means to address ophiolite emplacement during to the end of
Jurassic (Gjata et al.,1989). Radiometric measurements reported that
amphibolite samples from the base of Bulqiza ultrabasic massif determine
date about 164 (+,-) 5 Ma (Dobson, Bills, Kodra, 1990). Being a complete
ophiolite succession with a very good exposure, laying in the central area,
Mirdita ophiolite comprises the western branch of Dinaric Albanides
Hellenic ophiolite. They locate between Pelagonian and Subpelagonian
tectonic units. Some authors classify Mirdita ophiolite into eastern
harzburgite and western lhezolite massifs because the lherzolites with
plagioclase are locally well developed in the western massifs, whereas the
eastern massifs are uniformly composed of harzburgite. Enormous
petrologic and metallogenic differences (in the mantle and oceanic crust
successions) are reported, but no exact boundary can be delineated
between them. The eastern unit presents a complete, intact ophiolite

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succession, whereas in the western unit some components of oceanic

crust are limited or in some cases totally missing. -Oceanic plagiogranite,
large massifs, with N- S extension, are present in the central part of Mirdita
ophiolite. The two types of dyke complexes are the sheeted dyke
complexes formed in the extension regime (oceanic spreading). This type is
mainly composed of basaltic dykes and, the sheeted dyke complex formed
during compression regime (intraoceanic subduction) in some local sites in
extension regime. This type is composed mainly of dacite and rhyodacite
dykes. -Widespread dacite rhyodacite formations both as massive flows,
and sheeted dykes. -Mirdita ophiolite sequences have very developed
metallogeny: chromite, copper and iron nickel
Ophiolite formations could be met in two belts, about 140km far from
Tropoja massif north to Morava massif southeast of Albania. Ophiolites of
Albanides there are separated into SSZ of eastern belt and MOR of western
belt (Shallo et al., 1992). Ophiolite complex of Albanides occupies of about
5 000km2.
Its thickness varies from 3km in the west to 5-7 km in east. Geophysical
data report that in the north- easternmost part, it goes up to 10-14 km
(Bushati et al., 1982; Langora et al., 1983). In Bulqiza, Kuksi, Tropoja,
Shebeniku ultramafic massifs, chromite ore deposits, mostly encountered
in peridotite-dunite sequences have been prospected. In the volcanosedimentary and volcanic sequences, copper ore deposits have been
prospected. On the weathered crust of ultramafic sequences of eastern belt
massifs, iron-nickel and nickel-silicate ore deposits have been met. Mirdita
ophiolite zone overthrusts the Krasta-Cukali zone (Cukali subzone).
Korabi zone is the easternmost tectonic zone in Albania characterized
by intensive development of the Paleozoic rocks. Here, the section starts
geologically with Ordovician to Devonian terrigenous and volcanosedimentary formations, generally metamorphosed to green-schist facies.
During the Triassic-Jurassic era, Korabi zone was a pelagic intra-platform
basin, located between Gjalica carbonate platform in the west and the huge
Pelagonian carbonate one in the east. In the Peshkopi region, Paleozoic and
Mesosoic formation of Korabi zone are overthrusted by Permian evaporite
domes, by Eocene, Oligocene and Miocene flysch deposits.
Figure 5 and 6 depict geological-geophysical sections I-I and Albanides
1 of Internal and External Albanides.

Fig. 5. Geological Section I-I.

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Photo-1. Glacial lake

in Lura ophiolite massif

Fig. 6. Geological-geophysical profile Albanid-2: Falco Adriatic Sea- Durres-Tirana- Peshkopi (Frashri
A et al. 2009; The gravity data for the Adriatic Sea after Richetti, 1980). 1.Pliocene Substratum; 2Substratum of Serravalian Molasses; 3- Paleogenic flysch (Pg3) and molasses over the limestone; 4Flysch of the Mastrichtian (Crm1), Lower and Middle Paleogene (Pg1-2); Old flysch of Jurassic (J) and
middle Cretaceous (Cr2); 6- Carbonatic facies divided by the tectonic zones; 7- Ultrabasic rocks; 8Disjunctive tectonic; 9- Depth up-rupt; 10- Top of Chrystal basement; 11- The basal of the Earth Crust;
12- Moho Discontinuity' 13- Focus nodal plan of the earthquakes in the Kavaja region, western Albania;
14- Seismic reflection; 15- Deep well.
GB,t- Trend of 2nd degree of Bouguer anomaly; GB,t- Residual Bouguer anomaly;
Tt - Trend of the 2nd degree of total magnetic anomaly; Tr - Residual of the 2nd
degree of total magnetic anomaly; To - Observed magentic anomaly;

Oil and gas-bearing of Albanides

Associated with evaporate diapers, oil and gas-bearing fields discovered
up to now, locate in the External Albanides, particularly in the Ionian
tectonic zone consisting of carbonate rocks and in the Peri- Adriatic
molasses. Investigations report that in addition to the aforementioned
regions, the other tectonic zones of the External Albanides and Internal

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Albanides are characterized by oil and gas-bearing structures: i) Kruja zone

is rich in dolomite, bituminous dolomite, and shale rocks, ii) in molasses
structures of Peri-Adriatic Depression, as it is rich in Aquitanian,
Burdigalian, Tortonian and Pliocene and, iii) Krasta Cukali zone is rich in
rocks shale rocks dating from Triassic to Jurassic and Cretaceous to
Palogene.
Oil and gas reservoirs are encountered both in the deeper marine
carbonates of the Ionian zone and in clastic sequences of Peri-Adriatic
Depression. Reservoir in some oil fields relate to Miocene deltaic
sandstones with porosities ranging between 10-30% and permeability's
200-2000md. The reservoir in the gas fields of Peri-Adriatic Depression
relates to molasses sandstones of Late Miocene to Tortonian-Messinian or
in turbidite sandstone of Pliocen age of porosities ranging between 1237%. Thick clay of Tortonian-Pliocene proved to be a good seal for the gas
and oil fields in Peri-Adriatic Depression sequences (Hydrocarbon Potential,
AKBN). The Upper Cretaceous reservoirs in Raja zone, consisting of
dolomite and dolomite limestone, have not been crossed by any well, thus
they are described from outcrops. As, those reservoirs in Kruja zone belong
to shallow water platform facies, good to excellent reservoir proprieties
could be met. Figure 7 depicts the seismic geological section of TiranaFortuzaj-Adriatic Sea. Figure 8 depicts the seismic regional section of VoraDurrs. The early flysch of Jurassic-Cretaceous in Mirdita and Krasta zone
together with the flysch of Mastrihtian-Eocene in the Krasta Cukali zone
could be considered as the good seal. The main trap formation process
relates to the compression tectonic regimen of Alpine Orogeny and
overthrusting. This mechanism it was valid not only for the carbonate
reservoir fields, but for the most traps related to the clastic sandstone
reservoirs as well. In Dumrea salt diapir the traps in structures around are
linked with diapiric process of Permo-Triassic evaporates. Last year's there
are defined and presented new premises for prospection of oil and gas
resources in northeastern Albania, below ophiolite massifs, supposing the
formation of ophiolite belts in back arc island conditions (Kici, 2011).
Excluding oil and gas perspective, some authors report that ophiolites of
Mirdita Belt, were formed in an ocean. Geological data prove that the
Mirdita ophiolites formed in an intra-continental marginal back-arc basin.
This basin is supposed to never has been opened as an ocean. Volcanic
rocks are formed by volcanoes in the continental marginal basin.
Consequently, Mirdita Ophiolite zone represents a sedimentary basin with
intense magmatism, and has oil and gas perspective. Probably, ultramafic
massifs represent diapirs. The hot rocky diapers, similar to those of
evaporates, during diaper process have supposing created large carbonate
structures (piercing structures), that have interest for oil and gas.

Fig. 7. Geological structural section of Kruja zone below molasses.

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Fig. 8. Seismic section from Vora to Durresi.

IV. GEOTRIP
11 October 2013
Day One
Travelling from Tirana early in the morning, we will pass through FushKruja, Miloti, Rubiku, Gzhiq, Kalimash ophiolite sequences, Kukes, Gjegjan
copper mine and Peshkopi (overnight).
12 October 2013
Day Two
The second day of trip starts from Peshkopia and we pass through Bulqiza
ophiolite massif and Bulqiza chromite mine, Burreli, Shkopeti. We come
back in Tirana.
* * *
Day One
Tirana Kamza-Fush-Kruj
Neogene molasses of Tirana Syncline are here located. These are a part of
the Peri-Adriatic Depression (PAD). Coal deposits are here prospected.
Exploited by mine up to 1992, the largest coal deposits could be met in
Valiaa, a village north-west Tirana. Molasses sequences are rich in fossil
beds, quartz sandstone packets, and buried placers of heavy metals and
rare minerals. From the east of the road, Kruja-Dajti Mountain Chain,
crossed by many rivers and torrents which have formed narrow, deep
canyons and gorges could be seen. The Kruja-Dajti and Makaresh-Borizan
anticlines here located consist of carbonate rocks from a shallow water
platform in their upper levels, while valleys are filled by flysch. In the
limestone sequences, beds and packets full of gastropods and rudists could
be met. A transgression with bauxite mineralization is outcropped
Makareshi anticline.
A common characteristic of structural belt of Ionian and Kruja zones in
External Albanides is the westward thrusting (Fig. 5, 6). Triassic evaporite
sheet under the carbonate section has been of great impact for the
thrusting process. Interpreting the limestone top of the south Adriatic basin
and Sazani, Ionian and Kruja zones are observed that the southern Adriatic
basin limestone partly is extended under the last units. Peri-Adriatic
Miocene and Pliocene mosaic deposits cover the Sazani, Ionian. In addition,
they partly cover Kruja tectonic zones. This Neogene molasses is placed

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Kruja is a medieval town near Tirana. The name of Kruja is closely

connected with the name of the National Hero, Gjergj Kastriot Scanderbeu,
who fought against the Ottomans for 25 years in succession, defending
European civilization from their threat in the 15th century. At a prominent
and strategic place near the city, there is a castle built on a rocky hill from
where you can see attractive and beautiful views, within is housed the
Scanderbeg Museum (National Museum). On the way to the castle there is
a medieval bazaar.

KRUJA

trangressively over the oldest ones up to the limestone of the Ionian zone,
creating a two-stage structure (Fig. 5, 6). The molasses post-orogenic
deposits were covered transgressively Mirdita and partially Krasta Cukali
tectonic zones in Kora and Burreli basins.

What to see:
- Museum of Gjergj Kastrioti Scanderbeg
- Ethnographic Museum
- Archaeological site of Albanopoli, in village of Zgerdhesh
- Traditional Bazaar.
To the east of the road from Fushe Kruja to Miloti can be watched Kruja high
carbonate Chain and Makareshi carbonate anticline. Makareshi structure
plunged below molasses of Peri-Adriatic Depression (PDA) south of La
mentioned for its industry enterprise. Limestone structure of Ishmi extends
underneath the Neogene molasses at the west of Makareshi structure.
Kruja geothermal zone is rich in geothermal resources (Frashri et al,). Kruja
zone has a length of 180km. Identified resources in carbonate reservoirs are
of about 5.9x108-5.1x109 GJ (Fig. 8). As the source rocks in there are
dolomite, bituminous dolomite, and shale rocks.

Fig. 8. Kruja Geothermal Zone.

Northern Miloti, represented by shallow sea limestone and dolomite,

the contact of Krasta Cukali zone overthrusted west onto Kruja zone.
Stop 1. Rubiku: Contact of Mirdita zone with Krasta zone. In the first stop
taking place in Rubik, the Mirdita flysch formation thrusting onto Krasta
flysch formation Thrust of Mirdita flysch (J3t-Cr1) on Krast flysch (Cr2)
Rubiku ophiolite rock and copper mine (Photo 2). Northwest of Rubiku

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town, on slope of Fani , the ruins of Rubiku copper mine in volcanosedimentary series, one of the oldest mines in Albania, known since the
ancient times could be seen. Stratification massive ore often are of lens in
form, but a chear the stratigraphical level between basaltic pillow lavas
and radiolarite-chert intercalations is preserved.

Photo.2 Krasta Flysch

Photo.3 Pillow lavas in Gzhiq

Covered by the argillitic-detritus packet, volcano-sedimentary formation

has tectonic relations with ultrabasic rocks. The volcanics are characterized
by relatively high titanium content than the volcanics of the ophiolite
complex of the central part of Mirdita. Petrographically these rocks belong
to the unsaturated tholeites. From the Rubiku to Gzhiq and Reps the trip
continues with the plutonic and volcanic rocks of the ophiolite sequences,
amongst which, appear in some parts the cover of the mlange or agilliteclastic packet, and Neogene molasses of Burreli Depression. There are
plutonic rocks, mainly cumulate sorts, often plagioclase-bearing, tractolites
and gabbro, along the Rubik-Gzhiq road. In east of Fani River, some lens
bodies of plagioclase lhercolite, tradjemite, anorthosite injections outcrop.

Fig. 9. Copper suplhide deposits in Mirdita

region (After Metalogenic Map of Albania, at
the scale 1:200.000, 1999). 1- Ophiolitic
formation; 2- Neogenic molasses formation
of the post frontal depressions; 3Maastrichtian Eocene flysch and Mddle
Triassic- Upper Cretaceouc carbonate
formation; 5- Block in Matrix mlange; 6-7Chromite and copper ore deposits,
respectively (occurrence, small, medium,
and big deposits).

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Fig. 10. Geoelectrical section,

Laku I Roshit area, Puka
distrivt (Avxhiu R., 1979,
1990). 1- Mineralized zone;
2- Ore body; 3- Keratophyre;
4- Spilite; 5- Deluvium;
6- Borehole; 7- Hydrostatic
underground water level.

In addition, the small occurrences of the refractory type chromire ore bodies between cumulates, near the Fani village, about 2km SE of Rubiku
outcrop. In the road, close to Gzhiq Village, the volcanics are in form of
pillow lavas, similar as in Rubik. Here, between these rocks appear also the
massive diabases up to gabbro-diabases.
The chemical composition of the pillow lavas shaped basaltic volcanics
(Sample from close to the Rresheni Bridge) is as following:
SiO2=48.71%; TiO2=1.67%; Al2O3=12.52%; Fe2O3=6.19%;
FeO=8.27%; MnO=0.30%; MgO=8.72% CaO=8.32% Na2O=2.51%;
K2O=0.30%; H2O=2.71%; Total= 100.22%.
In Gzhiq-Shenpal zone appears the argillite-detritus packet or
heterogenic mlange, stratigraphicaly set normally on the vocanics. The
transition it is done through 10-20m reddish, radiolarite cherts of
Kimmeridgian-Titonian. This mlange represents a matrix consisting of the
argillic-aleurolite schists, which contains clasts and blocks of different
ophiolite rocks, sandstone, Triassic-Jurassic limestone and cherts, and
Middle Triassic basic to acid volcanics, well observed in Shn Pal-Blinisht
villages as well. The rare presence of limestone with Calpionella report that
this packet is Tithonian-Berriasian in age (Shallo, 1965). In RepsMashterhor sector, Mirdita Ophiolite sections start with the upper levels of
gabbro-pllagiogranite sequence followed by the series of diabasic
microdiorite parallel dykes placed in volcanics of basalte-dacite serie which
built up the uppermost part of ophiolite sequence. Here, the basalte-dacite
sequence is represented by basalte packet in lower part and andesite-dacite
packet in the upper part. Petrochemical features of these rocks coincide
with the analogues of eastern ophiolites of the Mediterranean-Alpine Belt.
The volcanic sulphide mineralization of the stockwerky and massive types
associated by the hydrothermal metasomatites of green schists facies
occur between volcanics of basalt-dacite serie and sheeted dyke complex.

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Before coming to the Kalimashi tunnel, on the eastern side, limestone

being Cretaceous in age, transgressively, placed on the ophiolite rocks of
eastern belt are met. Munella Mountain consisting of carbonate rocks,
placed on the volcanics of Centaral Mirdita ophiolite far away to the west.
To the north slope of Fani River, between Thira Village and tunnel there are
prospected Thira copper deposits and mines, in gabbro rocks, linked with
quartz-sulfur veins. Travelling through Kalimashi tunnel we cross the
contact between Kaptena gabbro massiv and Kuksi ultrabasic massif,
which passes from Qaf Kumbulla(above the tunnel) to Runa Moutain and
to Laku i Qershis in the West. Getting out from the tunnel we are traveling
in ultrabasic rocks of Kuksi ophiolite massiv.
STOP 2. Fush-Dukagjin and Kalimashi stop. Stratification of Kuksi
ophiolite massiv
The Kuksi ultrabasic massif having classical stratification has been of
great interest to the geologists since 1960 (Serjani, 1967). Later,
geological works determined the succession of the magmatic section at
the bottom of massif consisting of amphibolites and volcano-sedimentary
series towards the east in Gjegjani copper deposit (Gjei, 1985), and
towards the top in the west, from gabbro up to plagiogranites and sheeted
dyke complex, which closes magmatic section (Gjata, Shallo, Meshi,
1995). Kuksi ultramafic massif has a high chromium-bearing potential.
The chromite ore-bodies are concentrated mainly in the layers rich in
peridotite-dunite and dunite-peridotite. Kuksi ultramafic massif with a
surface of 110 km2 locates in northeast of Mirdita ophiolites (Fig. 11, 12),
which represent the transition between Mid-Oceanic ridge and immatureisland-arc magmatism. It has southeast - northwest trend. It is about 23
km long, 12-13 km wide in the center and 3-5 km wide in northeast.
Kuksi ultramafic massif makes up a fragment of the oceanic lithosphere
(Marto, Meshi, Zhupi, 1999).

Fig.11 . Geological Map of Kuksi ophiolite massif

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Outcrop as well the small occurrences of the refractory type chromire ore
bodies between cumulates, near to the Fani village, about 2km SE of
Rubiku. In the road, close to Gzhiq Village, the volcanics are in form of
pillow lavas, similar as in Rubik. Here, between these rocks appear also the
massive diabases up to gabbro-diabases.
Common ophiolite section is presented in the Gjegjan-Kalimash-Runa
Mountain section. Here, all the major components of an ophiolite are
present. In addition, the following sucessions of ophiolite complex are
encountered:
I. In northeastern part this section begins with volcano-sedimentary series
(Stop 3).
II. Magmatic section continues with Kuksi ultrabasic massif, where from
northeast to sothwest are placed: harzburgites, harzburgit-dunites, duniteharzburgites, dunites and olivinites, vherlites and pyroxenites (transition
zone).
III. Kaptena basic massif rich in banded gabbro, isotropic gabbro, gabbro
norite, norite, gabbro amphibolite, gabbro olivine, gabbro quartzite,
troctolite. In the upper levels, diorites, quartz diorites, and plagiogranites
have been developed. Sheeted dyke complex and volcanic rocks locate
close to magmatic section.

Fig.12. The scheme of the stratification of Kuksi massif .

Stratification of the ultramafic section of the massif

Into the rocks of Kuksi ultrabasic massif there are well expressed
primary textures of flow, formed as result of crystalline differentiation, and
the cracks of primary separation, formed during cooling and solidification of
the rock. Kuksi ultrabasic massif is monocline in shape with common deep
to the southwest. In Kuksi ultrabasic massif, the three main magmatic
strata are (Fig.12): 1. Lower strate, constituted by harzburgite

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serpentinites, which extend from the contact with amphibolites in Gjegjani

copper deposit up to Trull-Surroj village. Depth angle varies from 5o-10o in
bottom up to 20o in upper horizons of peridotites. Accessory chrom-spinel
grains are very rare and very small. Peridotite stratum is about 2 km thick.
Middle magmatic stratum comprises the intercalations of peridotites
with dunites. Here, the lower substratum consisting of peridotites with
dunite lenses and bandings together with the upper substratum where
dunites with peridotites are intercalated. Dipping in the southwest, lenses
and bandings have a south - north trend. The depth of angle increases
gradually from 20o in lower layers, to 40o in upper layers. Bandings and
chains of pyroxene crystals are clearly expressed, and their quantity
increases from northeast to southwest.
Peridotite-dunite stratum is about 2.2 km thick in the center of the
massif. It decreases up to 1 km in the south. Both lower strata represent
mantel part of the magmatic section, constituted by harzburgite and dunite
of refractory nature (Fo: 90-92, NiO>0.2%, En: 90-92.5) (Marto, Meshi,
Zhupi, 1995).
The contents of mineral phases in all mantel part are almost
homogenous. Harzburgites are constituted by serpentinised olivine (80%),
orthopyroxene (less than 17%),clinopyroxene (up to 3%), and chromspinel
(2-3%).
Here, some chromite deposits of chromite bodies with banded texture
have been prospected. Comprising the upper stratum, dunite and fresh
olivinite zone together with the transition zone in verlites and pyroxenites.
The dip angle increases towards the southwest from 40o to 60o-70o in Maja
e Runs Mountain, in contact with gabbros of Kaptena massif.

Photo 4. Serp. Harzburgite

Photo-6. Banded Chromite ores.

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Photo-5. Harzb.-Dunite-Px-Gabbro

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In the dunite-peridotite stratum, chromite ores of different composition,

sometimes up to massive ores have been prospected. The ore bodies are
lenses and plate-shaped characterized by banded texture.
Fresh olivinites outcrop in the lower level of this magmatic strate.
Olivinites are monomineral formation. The content is olivine, 2-5% opx and
less than 2% cpx.
This stratum is rich in primary flow textures and bandings in chromite
ore bodies. This strate has thickness of about 0.8 km. Being 300-500m
thick, and characterized by intercalations of pyroxene, vebsterite, gabbropyroxenite, and pyroxenite olivinites with verlites, lhercolites, plagioclase
peridotites, and tractolites the ultramaphic-maphic transition zone from
olivinites to gabbro outcrops very good in the Laku Qershise section where
ophiolites expose mantel-crust relations. The area from lower to upper
stratum of Kuksi ultrabasic massif, is characterized by: i) frequent primary
flow of structural elements, ii) The dip angle varies from 5-10 to 6070, iii) content of heavy elements such as Cr, Ni, Fe increases. Chemical
data (Ol+Py) report that the area from the bottom consisting of
serpentinised peridotites to the top consisting of pyroxenite of transition
zone and olivinite gabbros are richer in Fe and poorer in Mg. These data are
a means to address fractioned crystallization and increase of accessory
chromite grains and chromite bodies. Massive ore bodies are met only in
dunite-peridotite strata. Ultramaphic tectonites have foliation (S1) almost
parallel banding (So) and lithological contacts. The Kuksi ultrabasic rocks
represent a weak scale of deformation (Hoxha, 1995) to averagely
recrystallized porphiroclastic structures. Notable in olvinite substructures,
the microstructures of different facies report an overplacing of high
temperature deformations on the low temperature deformations. The
intensity of deformation changes even into the same rocky facies.
Consequentlu, it has local character. The most of structures are
protogranular and porphiroclastic. The foliation trajectories are very
irregular, corresponding to a deformation caused by asthenospheric,
diapiric lifting at the top of an oceanic ridge.
Stop 3. Gjegjani copper deposit and volcano-sedimentary series
Gjegjani volcano-sedimentary series represents the bottom of the
ultramaphic rocks of the Kuksi massif according to the some authors.
Here, particularly in Gjegjan, the copper deposits have been prospected and
explored.
Northeast, ophiolite section begins with the volcano-sedimentary
series. From 20m-150m thick, a metamorphic packet of amphibolites and
green schists together with the contact of the aforementioned series with
the ultrabasic rocks is formed. The most noted section of this contact is

in Gjegjani copper deposit. Here, a normal successive placing of

peridotites on amphibolites and of amphibolites on vulcanosedimentary series occurs (Gjei, 1985).
In the Gjegjani copper deposit (Foto 7), section of the volcanosedimentary series is presented by basic rocks, basalts, hialobasalts,
diabases, diabasic porphyries etc. In addition, medium and medium basic
rocks (trahiandesites-andesites-basalts up to trahitebasalts) could be rarely
found. Volcano-sedimentary rocks stratum are from 4-5m up to 20m thick.
It continues in strike for hundreds meters, intercalating with siliceous and
clay shales. Metamorphic rocks are represented by amphybolites and
quartz-mica-garnet schists, amphybol-chlorite and phylitic quartz-sericite

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schists. Amphibolites are met along tectonic contact of the Kuksi

ultrabasic rocks with volcano-sedimentary series which date since Jurassic
age. The biggest copper ore deposit (Gjegjani) and of volcano-sedimentary,
collchedan in origin locates within such volcano-sedimentary mlange. It is
located in eastern edge of Mirdita ophiolite. Jurassic volcano-sedimentary
series comprises: i) lower trahite-schist packet, ii) middle basalt-schist
packet and, iii) upper metamorphic packet. The lower packet where
subalcali volcanics prevail, is rich polymetallic sulphur mineralization. In
middle packet of basalte volcanics, which is the thickest packet, collchedan
copper mineralization is prospected. In upper metamorphic packet
mineralization are metamorphosed collchedan types. In the volcanosedimentary series of Gjegjani, five levels of copper mineralization are
defined (Bezhani et al., 1990), but the most important levels are the red and
basalte-schist level (the fourth level), where the copper deposit is formed
and second level. Consisting of chalcklpyrite, pyrite, pyrotine minerals,
copper ore is of high quality.

Photo-7. Gjegjan Copper

Mine Quarry

Fig. 13. Geoelectrical real-section of IP chargeability (M4) according to the deep electrical soundings in
volcano sedimentary formation. Gjegjani area (Alikaj P. 1998, Lubonja et al. 1995). 1- Overburden; 2- ; 3Amphibolites; 4- Volcano-sedimentary - serie; 5- Limestone; 6- Disseminates and veinlet sulphides; 7- IP
Chargeability contours, in mV7V; 8- Centre of Electrical soundings and their numbers.

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Stop 4: Kala e Dodes (Doda Castle). Regional geology: Korabi and Mirdita
tectonic zones
On the way back from Gjegjani copper deposit, we pass through the Vanaj
Gorge intersecting the Koritnik (1900m) and Gjallica (2484m) mountains
exposing aesthetic view. In the Bicaj Village can be, carbonate deposit of
aggregates could be met. Being of geomorphologic, didactic and tourist
interest, the canyon of Bicaj, near the village and southernmost Gjallica
Mountain is 2,5 km long, 4-6 m wide and 150-200 m deep. It has. Can be
visited following the itinerary Kuks-Bicaj. Gjallica carbonate mountain
dating since the Middle Triassic age is considered as Mirdita ophiolite
frame. Getting to Gryka Kolosianit (2051m), red in color Permo-Triassic
formations in Korabi tectonic zone could be met. To the east of Bushtrica
village at Kala e Dodes, open common view of Mirdita zone in the west and
Korabi zone in the east. Here, the trip continues with the Permo-Triassic
volcano-sedimentary formation. In the east of Bushtrica Village, consisting
of phylite-clay-siliceous schists with quartz porphire, ignimbites, trahiandezite and quartzites, Palaeozoic formation of Ordovician-Silurian age are
spread throughout the slope up to Kollata Mountain (2175m) and Kulla e
Zyberit Peak (2372m). In the lower levels, Silurian-Devonian rocks,
represented by black schists with Graptolites and schists, crynoide
limestone with tentaculites could be met. In the west of Black Drini River
Valley, carbonate rocks of ophiolite frame from big Skavica Canyon in the
north, along with the eastern contact of Lura ophiolite massif in the south
could be found. At the bottom of Lura ultrabasic massif, a thick amphibolite
series, named Amphibolites of Gurre Lura is formed.

The geological structure of Gjegjani deposit is overthrusted. That it is seen

by overthrusted pillow lavas in exploitation quarry. The main minerals are
chalkopyrite, pyrite, pyrotine. Gjegjani copper deposit has been exploitated
from 1962 to 1992. The copper production were a means to address the
melting plant in Rexhepaj construction and a tool for the founding of the
new city of Kuksi.

Photo-8. Korabi Highland

of Pz formations

Stop 5. Mali Bardh (White Mountain) gypsum dome. Peshkopi salt domes
Ionian and Korabi zones are characterized by the outcrop of salt diapirs
going up to deep paleofaults mainly in places of the tectonic knots (Serjani,
Mehillka, 1998). The largest outcrops relate to the Vlora-Elbasan DibrShkup (Scopie) regional seismogenic fault. Here, Dumrea salt diapir with a

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surface area of about 220 km2, Mali Bardh and Bellova large evaporate
domes in Peshkopi region and Dibra outcrops in Macedonia are
encountered. Mali Bardh and Bellova large evaporate domes and Dibra
outcrops locate just at knot of crossing: Vlora-Elbasan-Dibra-Shkup
transverse seismogenic fault with Prespa-Ohrid-Dibra longitudinal fault.
Presumably a consequence of a drag mechanism, and not injection, the
evaporite sheet tapers gently upwards.

Photo-9. Mali Bardhe salt dome

Photo-10. Bellova salt dome

Representing large salt domes rounded by flysch formations of anticline

form, evaporite outcrops in Peshkopi region have a regular isometric shape.
Thermomineral springs are related to evaporate rocks (Frashri et al.,
2004). Hot sulfurous springs (60-70C) there are developed around
Bellova salt dome, and in Dibra City in Macedonia together with modern
thermal bath. In Peshkopi Region gypsum-anhydrites, Mali Bardh (White
Mountain) and Bellova-Banjat Salt domes outcrop in form of two large
domes. They have uplifted crossing up to the Paleogene shale flysch. In
addition, the region is characterized by large domes up to 1 000-1200m
thick. They are in tectonic contact with Triassic limestone and Paleogene
flysch. Only in single cases it is supposed normal placing of Permian
metamorphic rocks on gypsum-anhydrites (Bandilli etj., 1976). That give
the possibility Lower-Middle Permian age of Peshkopi evaporates. Absolute
geological age on basis of isotopic Stroncium analyses for Peshkopi
gypsum domes is Lower Permian (the end of Wordian or Middle
Changshigian: 252.5-246 My), according Diamanti (2004). Mali Bardh
salt dome has a surface of about 50km2 (10x4x7km), while the BellovaBanjat salt dome is smaller, of about 15 km2. In western side salt domes
outcrop at levels 700-800m, while at the eastern side they are going up to
1800-1990m. The total surface of both salt domes it is of about 65 km2.
There are prospected of about 12 gypsum-anhydrite, and gypsum-selenite
deposit and objects. Shale Paleogene flysch, which rounded salt domes it is
intensively tectonized in contact with gypsum rock. In some places there is
formed a thin cap-rock.
DAY TWO
Peshkopi-Bulqiza-Burreli-Tirana
During the second day of the trip we cross Black Drini Valley, where
Peshkopia inner depression of new Neogene-Quaternary sediments is
formed. Once the Drini i Zi River is crossed, on the western slopes Middle

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Stop 6. Geology of Bulqiza ophiolite massif. Bulqiza Chromite deposit and

mine
At the stop on the most eastern part of Vaikali glacial valley from the road
can be watched to the north side the eastern contact of Bulqiza ultramafic
massif with surrounding rocks. Here, there are Triassic-Jurassic carbonate
rocks overlying volcano-sedimentary serie of Jurassic. Ultrabasic rocks are
set upon this serie through amphibolite sequence, which outcrop in the
road to Ternova chromite deposit. A mixed brecciated formation, highly
tectonised, representing a melange type, is set on carbonates in other
sectors.

Triassic Middle Jurassic limestone rock outcrop and very nice bedded
flysch sequences of Titonian-Upper Cretaceous could be met in the
northern slope of the road. High limestone mountains of Upper TriassicMiddle Jurassic are in the left of the road. They represent eastern frame of
Mirdita ophiolite, Bulqiza ultramafic massif.

Bulqiza ultramafic massif is situated in the eastern belt of the Mirdita

ophiolites. It is distinguished by high chromite ore-bearing potential. Here
are prospected and exploitated the biggest and the richest chromite ore
deposits such as Bulqiza, Batra, Thekna etc. Bulqiza ultrabasic massif
occuppies a surface of about 350km2. It is of about 3.5km thick, according
erosion outcrops and drillings. The gravimetric investigations revealed a
thicknes of this massif of about 6km. The tectonite sequence, with the
prevalent development of tectonites and relatively limited spreading of the
cumulate ones, take part in the geological structure and in the petrological
section of this massif. The fresh harzburgites with lherzolite affinity,
occuppying more eastern parts of the massif, occur in the lowermost parts
of the tectonite sequence. The harzburgites with the presence of dunite
lenses are successively developed in the eastern and central parts of the
massif. It is characterized by an increase of dunite lenses and bodies.
Nevertheless, harzburgites prevail.
Consisting of dunite, wherlite, pyroxenite, gabbro rocks, the cumulate
rocks are outcroped in SW and NW of the massif. The tectonite sequence
of Bulqiza Ultrabasic massif is about 2500m-2800m thick, cumulate
sequence is of about 700-800m thick. (Fig.15). Petrochemical
investigations suggest that the harzburgites of the deepest part have
higher content of Al2O3, CaO, TiO2 contents, lower MgO content, as well
as more lowerer Cr/(Cr+Al) ratio with respect to the harzburgites of the
uppermost part of the petrochemical section. An evolution in the chemistry
of rocks is seen with the increasing of the partial melting processes.

Photo-11. Vajkali Valley and Mine

Photo-12. Bulqiza Mine

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Fig. 14 Generalized
column of the
Bulqiza massif.Cr - Cr / ( Cr + Al ); FM Fe + / Fe + Mg );
ao - parameter of
the elementary cell
(ina A. 1987)

Fig. 15. Chromite ore

deposits in Bulqiza
ultrabasic massif
(After Metalogenic Map of
Albania, at the scale
1:200.000, 1999)
1-Ophiolitic formation; 2Neogene molasse formation
of the post frontal
depressions;
3- Mastrichtian-Eocene
flysch formation; 4- Upper
Tithonian-Cenomanian
Early flysch formation; 5Middle Triassic-Lower
Jurassic carbonate
formation; Terrigeneous
metamorphosed Paleosoic
formation; 7- Chromites ore
deposits (occurrence, small,
medium, and big deposits.

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Fig. 16. Geologicalgeophysical

line in Klos- BulqizeShupenze
(Frashri A. et al. 1990).
1-Hartzburgite;
2- Serpentinite;
3- Triassic
2-Limestone; 4- Volcano3-sedimentary serie;
5- Jurassic limestone:
- Cr3-Pg3 flysch; 7- Pg1-2
limestone;
8- Tectonic cover;
8- Disjunctive tectonics.

Located in the southern part of Bulqiza ultramafic massif and comprising the middle levels of
the magmatic sequence, Bulqiza chromite ore is the largest chromite deposit in Albania.
Chromite ores in Bulqiza chromite massif could be found: i) deep in the mantle section where
harzburgite rich in clynopyroxene is present, extended in the eastern part of massif, small
podiform chromite ore bodies of a massive structure, which are Al-rich and higgledy magnesium
ore. These ore outcrops, actually aren't of a practical interest, ii) in the harzburgite sequence,
where lenses and dunite intercalations are present, in the axial part of the massif, high podiform
chromite ore bodies occur. They are of varied shapes. The Bulqiza and Batra deposits are
situated in this level and are of very large dimensions and tabular folded shape (Fig.18).
Complicated due to small anticline and syncline folding structures, a large anticline structure

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asymmetric couold be met. The eastern flank has western dip of very high angle, whiles the
western flank, and has in general, a dipping of mean angles. Other deposits have tabular,
podiform, pensil shape etc.
The chromite ores are of massive structure, with dense disseminations, more seldom nodular.
They are distinguished by a high chromicity and FM. The most important chromite ore bodies
could be found in the harzburgite sequence with the large dunite bodies and intercalations, such
in Qafe Bualli deposit etc. They are of tabular, lens forms with strong dipping angles. The
chromite ore is of rich up to mean contents. They are characterised by high chromicity and highly
magnesia content. The chromite ore concentrated in dunite levels, represent the uppermost
level of tectonite sequence, with the transition to cumulate sequences locating in the Southwest
and Northwest of Bulqiza ultrabasic massif. Here, Krasta, Maja e Lugut deposits have been
prospected. Ore bodies are similar to the stratiform type, with small dipping, unfolded, paralelly
between them. Ore bodies are banded, disseminated etc. The sulphide disseminations are
common (pentlandite, native copper, etc.) The chromite ore it is also of Cr-rich type.The stratified
ore bodies of aluminium-chromite concentrations, often associated with sulphides etc., occur in
the cumulate sequence, in dunite-wherlite sequence, close to tractolite-olivine gabbro. The rare
bands of chromite ores, without practical interest occur in the tractolites-gabbroolivinites. The
chromite ore is rich in Al-rich type, highly magesium, accompanied by sulphide etc.

Fig. 18

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Qaf Buall path is an erosion-glacial geosite exposing a very nice view,

separating Plani I Bardhglacial valley in west, from Vajkali glacial valley in
the east. Glacial breccia rocks are here outcropped. In addition, we pass
through the peridotites of the tectonite sequence. Moreover, here the two
parts (northern and southern) comprising the Bulqiza ultramafic massif
could be distinguished. The northern part of the massif shows a lower
degree of melting with respect to southern one, which is characterized by a
profound development of partial melting processes. The southern part of
the massif has got the highest potential resource of chromite-bearing ore.
The most important chromite ore deposit is prospected by drillings in Qafa e
Buallit sector. Travelling through the northern slope of Plani Bardhe, the
valley exposing a nice panoramic view. Far away to the south, Krasta,
Batra, chromite ore deposits could be noted. Travelling towards the west,
Burreli inner molasses depression could be met. In the western contact of
Bulqiza Ultrabasic massif on the deep canyons and slopes, amphibolite
rocks, fragments of volcano-sedimentary series, and Triassic-Jurassic
carbonate rocks are outcropped. Here, successive developments of
volcano-sedimentary series, amphibolites and ultrabasic rocks are
developed.

Stop 7. Qaf Bualli, Plani Bardh. View of Burreli Depression

Photo- 13. Thekna

Chromite Deposit

Photo- 14. Harzburgite rock

Photo- 15 . Rich Chromite ore

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Stop 8. Crruja. Contact of tectonites with cumultes in Bulqiza ophiolite

massif
At the northeast of Klosi town, in Crruja Village, the contact between
tectonite and cumulate sequences of Bulqiza ultramafic massif is
outcropped. Consisting of dunites, wherlites, pyroxenites, gabbro rocks
and being 700-800m thick, cumulate sequences locate in northwest and
southwest of Bulqiza ultrabasic massif.
Burreli molasses depression represents the northernmost margin of the
Albano-Thessalian basin. It is a Neogene Basin, filled with Tortonian
continental molasses, transgressively set on the Mesozoic basement of
ophiolites, Upper Jurassic-Lower Cretaceous early flysch, and Upper
Triassic, Upper Cretaceous limestone. The section of molasses formation
of Burreli Basin is characterized by: i) conglomerate being 70-100m thick,
ii) sandstone intercalated with clay and aleurolite beds characterized by
coal beds being 420-450m thick. Here, in these beds there are fresh water
mollusks could be observed and, iii) conglomerates and sandstones being
50-70m thick (Pashko P., 1968).
Stop 9. Shkopeti Gorge. Contact of Skanderbeg ophiolite massif with
limestones of the ophiolite frame
From Baz Village, Ulza Hydropower Plant to Shkopeti Hydropower Plant
(Mat River Valley), we travel along Skanderbeg ultramafic massif,
component of the western belt of Mirdita ophiolite. In the East of Shkopeti
Gorge, tectonic contact of limestone rock with ultrabasic rocks could be
met. Here, the harzburgite and dunite rocks, associable with basic rocks,
troctolites, gabbro-olivinites etc outcropped. Ultrabasic rocks are strongly
tectonized and schistized, especially, along the contact in the Shkopeti
tunnel.
REFRENCES
AKBN. MSG-Nr.3_dt.27.04.2012. Hydrocarbon Potential. Invest in
Albanian Natural Resources. Tirana
Avxhia R. 1994. U zhvillua Symposium i par kombtar i gjeofiziks. Bul.
Shk. Gjeol. Nr. 1.
Bushati S, Kodra A, Langora Ll. 1994. Ndrtimi i hartave krahinore
gravimetrike dhe magnetometrike dhe interpretimi i tyre n studimin
gjeologjik t Albanideve. Bul. Shk. Gjeol. Nr. 1.
Frashri A. etj. Nxehtsia e Toks energji alternative edhe n Shqiperi.
EDLOR Tiran.
Frashri A, Lubonja L, Langora Ll, Bushati S, 1991. Disa aspekte t
marrdhnieve t ofioliteve me shkmbinjt prreth sipas
interpretimeve t t dhnave gjeofizike. Bul. Shk. Gjeol. Nr. 1. Tiran.
Frashri A, Mezini D, Lubonja L, Langora Ll, 1994. Krkimet Gjeofizike n
Shqipri dhe zhvillimi i tyre n t ardhmen. Bul. Shk. Gjeol. Nr. 1. Tiran.
Frashri A, ermak V, Doracaj M, Lio R, afanda J, Bakalli F, Krel M,
Kapedani N, tulc P, Halimi H, Malasi E, Vokopola E, Kuerova L,
anga B, Jareci E. 2004. Atlas of Geothermal Resources of Albania.
Published by Faculty of Geology and Mining, Polytechnic University of
Tirana.
Frashri A, Beqiraj G, Frashri N. 2008. A Review of the Application of
Geophysical Methods in Exploration for Copper and Chrome Ores in
Albania. Kristalina-KH, Tirana.
Frasheri A, Bushati S, Bare V. 2009. Geophysical outlook on structure of
the Albanides. Journal of the Balkan Geophysical Society. Vol. 12, No.
1, December 2009, p.9-30, 27 figs, 1 table.

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Frasheri A, Bushati S, Nishani P, Lio R. 2009. Albanian geophysics in

years. (In Albanian). Polygraph KLEAN Sh.K.P., Tirana.
Frashri A, Bushati S. 2012. Geophysical Contribution during 90 years of
Albanian Geology and facing of the transition challenge. Presentation in
National Conference 90 years Geological Survey held in Tirana 26-28
October 2012.
Gjei K. 1985. Ndrtimi gjeologjik i vendburimit t bakrit Gjegjan. Thesis.
Fondi Qendror i gjeologjise, Tiran.
Gjata K, Shallo M, Meshi A. 1995. Workshop on Albanian ophiolites and
related mineralisations. Field Guidebook. Edition BRGM, France.
Hoxha M. 1995. T dhna petromikrostrukturore dhe intensiteti i
deformimit n shkmbinjt e masivit ultramafik t Kuksit. Bul. Shk.
Gjeol. Nr. 1. Tiran.
Kici V. 2011. Mirdita Ophiolite Zone and its oil and gas-bearing perspective.
GEOALB 2011. Mineral Resources and their perspective.. Mitrovica 2730 September 2011. Proceedings.
Marto A, Meshi A, Zhupi S. 1995. Abstract. Workshop on Albanian
ophiolites and related mineralisations. Introduction. Edition BRGM,
France.
Ohnenstetter. 1995. Workshop on Albanian ophiolites and related
mineralisations. Introduction. Edition BRGM, France.
Onuzi K. ina A. 2012. Eskursioni Gjeologjik i Konferences Jubilare t
Shrbimit Gjeologjik Shqiptar: Tiran-Rubik-Shkodr-Guri Zi-Vau i
Dejs.
Pashko P., 1968. Molusqet e suites s Burrelit. Prmbledhje Studimesh, Nr.
9/10. 133/152.
Serjani A, Neziraj A, Wimbledon WAE, Onuzi K, Hallai H, Bushati S. 2003.
Gjeomonumentet dhe Gjeoturizmi n Shqipri in both Albanian and
English versions. Shtypshkronja Marin Barleti Tiran.
Serjani A. 1967. Stratifikimi i masivit ultrabazik t Kuksit dhe perspektiva e
tij pr kromite t pasura. Buletini i Universitetit t Tirans. Seria e
Shkencave Natyrore. Nr. 4. Tiran.
Serjani A, Gjei K. 2008. The Stratification of the Ophiolite Complex in
Section Kukes-Kalimash-Kaptena Gabbro massif. Oral presentation to
the 33-rd International Geological Congress. Oslo, Norway, 6-14
August 2008
Shallo M. 1990. Boninitet ndrmejt ofioliteve lindore t Shqipris. Bul.
Shkencave Gjeol. Nr. 4, 1990, 19/37..

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SUPLEMENT

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1. PHYSICAL-GEOGRAPHICAL MAP OF ALBANIA

2. GEOLOGICAL MAP OF REPUBLIC OF ALBANIA (Scale 1: 200 000, 1983).
3. GEOLOGICAL STRUCTURE OF EARTH'S CRUST AND UPPER MANTLE
BESED ON SEISMOLOGICAL STUDIES (KOIU S, 1989).
4. BOUGUER ANOMALIES MAP OF ALBANIA (BUSHATI S, 1988).
5. TOTAL MAGNETIC MAP OF ALBANIA (BUSHATI S, 1998).
6. HEAT FLOW DENSITY MAP OF ALBANIA (FRASHRI A et al., 2004)
7. GEOTHERMAL GRADIENT MAP OF ALBANIA (FRASHRI A et al., 2004)
8. GEOTHERMAL ZONES MAP IN ALBANIA (FRASHRI A et al., 2004)
9. SEIMIC LINE, PREADRIATIC DEPPRESSION

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Geologic structure of Earth's Crust and Upper mantle based on seismological studies
(data taken from Koiu S. 1989). The numbers given in legende show the velocity of
the seismic waves, in km/s).
- Sedimentary Crust; - Consolidated crust; - Granite Crust; - Basalt Crust; - Upper
mantle; - Asthenospehere; - BK Crystal Basement; - Moho Discontinuity.

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Thickness of the sedimentary crust varies from 8-9 km thick in Adriatic

seashore to 15 km in northwestern regions of Albania (Frashri et al.,
1998; 2000, Koiu 1987; Veizaj 1995; Veizaj and Frashri 1996). The
depth of Moho discontinuity is 40 -50 km. Its deepest part is in
northwestern part of Albania. Regional gravity anomalies are interpreted as
caused by the variation of the depth of Moho discontinuity, and a block
construction of the crust, which coincides fully with the results of
seismological studies. The Earth crust in Albanides is interrupted by a
system of longitudinal fractures in NW - SE direction and transversal
fractures that touch even the mantel. Some of them separate even the
tectonic zones. This tectonic structure of the deep levels of the Earth Crust
in Albanides finds its reflection even in the scattering of the magnetic fields.

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Bushati (1988; 1997) stated that ophiolitic belt of the Mirdita tectonic
zone in Internal Albanides is characterized by intensive Bouguer anomalies
and very turbulent magnetic field, with weak anomalies reporting that the
ophiolitic belt thickest part locates 14 km in its northeasternmost part, in
the ultrabasic massif of Kuks. In the west and southeast, it is 2 km thick.
This interpretation proves the allochtone character of ophiolite belt and the
covering character of the western contact of ophiolitic belt, under which
the formation of Krasta-Cukal zone of External Albanides is laid. The
relations between the Internal and the External Albanides have of a nape

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nature when going towards S-WW direction. The separation of the gravity
and the magnetic anomalous belts in the central region of the Internal
Albanides, at Shengjergji flysch corridor prove the presence of Dibr Elbasan - Vlora transversal being of a great importance geologic character
of Albanides.

Moho discontinuity impacts the regional gravity trend in Albanides. From

the east part Albanides to the Adriatic Sea Shelf, the force of gravity
increases. In the geological-geophysical profiles Albanides, the depth of
roof of the Moho discontinuity of the Adriatic Sea region decreases. The
Moho discontinuity plunges from 25 km in the central part of the Adriatic
Sea (Finetti and Morelli, 1972) to 43- 52 km at eastern part of Albanides.
According to the interpretation of the magnetic regional anomalies resulted
that top of the crystal basement is plunged towards the littoral of the
Albanides up to the Central Albania.

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In the Heat Flow Density Map of Albania, is possible to observe two particularities of the
scattering of the thermal field of the Albanides:
Firstly, 42 mW/m2 ismaximal value of the heat flow in the External Albanides. At the eastern
part of Albania, the heat flow density values are up to 60 mW/m2. Radiogenic heat generation of
the ophiolites is very low. In these conditions, increasing of the heat flow in the ophiolitic belt,
are linked with heat flow from the depth. According to the Alb-1 line, the granites of the crystal
basement, which have the possibilities for the great radiogenic heat generation represents the
heat source. In ophiolitic belt, is observed decrease of the Moho discontinuity depth.
Secondly, in the ophiolitic belt are observed some hearth of higher heat flow density. Heat
flow anomalies are conditioned by intensive heat transmitting through deep and transversal
fractures. These fractures are conditioned location of the geothermal energy sources.
According to the calculation of different geothermometers, the aquifer estimated
temperatures are 144 to 270oC. Based on the geothermal modeling, one can suppose that thermal
waters rise from 8-12 km deep, where temperature attains to 220oC.
These arguments show that crystal basement has a blocks character. Depth of the location of
these blocks is shallower in Mirdita tectonic zone. Local heat hearths show the existence of the
transversal fractures and through these fractures is very high heat flow. Geothermal energy is
linked with great heat flow through these fractures.

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Geothermal gradient changes from western to the eastern part of the Albania,
and in the depth, too. The gradient values vary from 15-21.3 mK/m in the PeriAdriatic Depression. According to the modeling results report that the grandient
decreases in a depth of more than 20 km. This change of the gradient coincides
with the top of the crystal basement. In the ophiolitic belt of the Inner Albanides,
the geothermal gradient at northeast and southeast Albania goes up to 36 mK/m.
Here, at the top of the Triassic salts deposits (fig. 8), decrease of the gradient could
be met at a depth of more than 12 000 meters. In the both lines, the temperatures
in ophiolitic belt are higher than in the sedimentary basin of the same depth.

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Geophysical data report the bocks character of the crystal basement.
Mirdita tectonic zone, the blocks are characterized by a shallower depth.
Local heat hearths prove the existence of the transversal fractures. High
heat flows through these fractures and relates to geothermal energy.

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Being a geotectonic unit of the External Albanides, the Ionian zone locates
in southwest Albania. Since the upper Triassic, it has been developed as a
deep pelagic through. Here, the Permian- Triassic evaporites are the oldest
rocks. Over this formation lies a thick deposit formed by upper Triassiclower Jurassic dolomitic limestone and Jurassic-Cretaceous-Paleogene
pelagic cherty limestone. Limestone are covered by Paleogenic flysch,
Aquitanian flyschoidal formation, thin section of Burdigalian-Helvetian and
partially of Serravalian-Tortonian, which mainly fill up the synclinal belts.
Burdigalian deposits are placed in angle discordance over anticline belts.
Consequently, two-stage structure has occurred.
Geophysical phenomena occurred during the Liassing rifting were of great
impact for the affected External Albanides including Ionian zone where
three tectonic blocks representing the structural belts and forming the
western edge of the Ionian zone such as Berati, Kurveleshi and ika
anticline belts were formed.
Overlying Peri-Adriatic Depression covers the Ionian, Sazani and partly
Kruja tectonic zones. This is a fore depression filled with middle Miocene
and Pliocene molasses, which are mainly covered by Quaternary deposits.
Tortonian- Messinian- Pliocene molasses consist of a considerable number
of sandy-clay mega-sequences. From south-east to north-west, the
thickness of the molasses increases to 5000 m. Sandstone-clay deposits of
Serravalian and Tortonian are trangressively placed over the oldest ones
stretching up to the limestone. Consequently, a two-stage structure was
created.

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