Authors: Virgil Drăguşin, Nicolaie Alexandru, Mihai Caminschi, Florina Chitea, Vasile Ersek, Alina Floroiu, Liviu Giosan, Georgiana Alexandra Grigore, Diana Hanganu, Maria Ilie, Dumitru Ioane, Cristian Mănăilescu, Marius Mocuţa, Adrian Iulian Pantia, Alexandru Răzvan Petre, Iulian Popa, Gabriela Sava, Tiberiu Sava, Răsvan Stochici and Constantin Ungureanu
Summary: This research reveals previously undocumented tectonic activity on Romania’s Black Sea coast at Mangalia, a region often considered geologically stable. The study investigates the occurrence of marine sediments at an altitude that comes into contradiction with established sea level models, indicating that they were displaced by tectonic activity. By combining radiocarbon dating with archaeological evidence, such as Ottoman-era ceramics, the authors demonstrate that these dramatic vertical movements occurred rapidly sometimes during the 18th – 19th centuries. These findings are significant for Romania as they challenge previous reconstructions of Black Sea level history and highlight the risk of abrupt, local tectonic movements. This research serves as a vital warning for urban and marine development planners. It emphasizes the need for detailed seismic monitoring and geophysical studies to protect coastal settlements and infrastructure from potential future displacements, even in areas previously deemed low-risk.