Geological Setting of the Païolive Karst (Ardèche, South of France): Consequences on its Genesis and Vertical Development

A combined geological–geomorphological analysis of the Paiolive area, Ardeche, southern France, allows to discuss the extension, origin and chronology of the karst that affects late Jurassic limestone. Results point to paleo-surface abandonment, river incision and karst formation resulting from a late Miocene and pre-Messinian uplift of the area. The epigene karst does not extend below the present-day base level.