The Structural Position and Conditions of Formation of the Samsari Caldera Volcano (Javakheti Upland, Georgia)

The geological-structural position of the Samsari caldera volcano-tectonic depression confirms its development at the site of the Samsari gigantic stratovolcano at the final stage of the of the strong acid volcanic cycle activity connected with the Attic orophase occurring at the turn of the Late Miocene Early-Pliocene boundary. A view is put forth in the paper in connection with the mechanism of the origin of the Samsari caldera volcano-tectonic depression and the karstic forms (volcanokarst) developed on its surface. (author)