GeoAtlas: The documentation of the Egyptian Geoheritage usingGIS Tamer Elshayal CULTNAT, Egypt Email: tshayal@mcit.gov.eg Data concerning the `Earth Heritage` in Egypt are divided between several organizations, and are available in many different formats. This data can be in the form of geological and topographical maps, scientific reports, or even specimens of rocks and fossils in museum collections. The GeoAtlas is a project aiming to use spatial technologies for the gathering, integration and sharing of this plethora of materials relevant to the rich abiotic environment, i.e. the `Geodiversity` of Egypt. Far from being merely a stack of GIS layers, the GeoAtlas will act as an interoperable repository of data and metadata relevant to the Geoheritage of Egypt. Geological, geomorphological, paleontological, pedological, topographical, as well as relevant historical data will be integrated into one geodatabase. The main goal behind the GeoAtlas project is two folds: •First to provide accurate spatial information to decision makers, researchers and consultants in a practical, accessible form and present a tool that could enhance Egypt's capacity to conserve it's Natural Heritage. •The second is to build an educational tool about the diversity of Egyptian landscapes relying upon the visual aspect of GIS. The prospected benefits of the GeoAtlas: •Integration of geological features with other landscape elements (biotic, abiotic, anthropic) to better understand the environment. •A tool for the designation and monitoring of Geoparks and the landscape geodiversity. •A tool helping in simplifying, and communicating geological scientific knowledge. •A valuable resource of easy-to-use spatial data useful for ecotourism planning.