EcosuMaia - Lama dei Peligni, Fiume Aventino in Primavera - Sabato 4 Maggio 2024

The Geophony of Water: The Aventino River

The Aventino River, which flows through the Majella National Park, is a soundscape dominated by geophony—the natural sounds generated by non-living elements and physical or geological processes. The sound of flowing water is shaped by the river’s morphology: in steep, rocky areas, the water produces intense and turbulent noises, while in flatter sections, the flow becomes smoother, creating softer and more continuous sounds.

The river’s hydrological regime, influenced by seasons and precipitation, constantly alters the sonic landscape. During periods of high water, the roar of the river grows more powerful and chaotic, whereas in drier months, quieter sounds emerge, with dripping and trickling water flowing between exposed rocks.

These sounds not only define the acoustic environment but also provide valuable information about the river’s condition and environmental changes. Studying the geophony of water can help monitor variations in water flow, bank erosion, and other phenomena related to climate and the geology of the area.