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Messel Pit Fossil Site

Messel, Germany
24.06.2018

Grube Messel is a unique and fascinating site located in Messel, Germany. It is a former quarry that has been transformed into a world-renowned paleontological and geological site. Grube Messel has been recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1995, and it continues to attract visitors from all over the world.

The history of Grube Messel dates back millions of years. It was once a volcanic lake that was home to an incredible array of plants and animals. Over time, as the lake dried up and layers of sediment formed, the remains of these ancient creatures were perfectly preserved. This has provided scientists with an unparalleled opportunity to study and understand the evolution of life on Earth.

Today, visitors to Grube Messel can explore the site and witness the incredible fossil discoveries that have been made. The quarry is known for its exceptional preservation of mammals, birds, reptiles, and even insects. Some of the most famous finds include the oldest known fossilized bat and the well-preserved skeletons of prehistoric horses and early primates.

In addition to its paleontological significance, Grube Messel also has a unique geological history. The layers of sediment and fossils found here provide valuable insights into the Earth's past climate and environment.

Visitors can experience Grube Messel through guided tours, which take them around the quarry and its surroundings. The on-site museum also offers a wealth of information about the site and its discoveries, making it a must-visit for anyone interested in paleontology and natural history.

Aside from its scientific importance, Grube Messel is also a beautiful natural area with lush forests and a peaceful atmosphere. It is a popular spot for hiking and birdwatching, offering visitors the chance to connect with nature and appreciate the site from a different perspective.

In conclusion, Grube Messel in Messel, Germany, is a one-of-a-kind destination that offers a fascinating glimpse into the Earth's past. Its well-preserved fossils and unique geological features make it a must-visit for anyone interested in the history of life on our planet.


Messel Pit is the richest site in the world for understanding the living environment of the Eocene, between 57 million and 36 million years ago. In particular, it provides unique information about the early stages of the evolution of mammals and includes exceptionally well-preserved mammal fossils, ranging from fully articulated skeletons to the contents of stomachs of animals of this period.

The Messel pit (German: Grube Messel) is a disused quarry near the village of Messel (Landkreis Darmstadt-Dieburg, Hesse) about 35 km (22 mi) southeast of Frankfurt am Main, Germany. Bituminous shale was mined there. Because of its abundance of well-preserved fossils of the Messel Formation dating from the middle of the Eocene, it has significant geological and scientific importance. Over 1000 species of plants and animals have been found at the site. After almost becoming a landfill, strong local resistance eventually stopped these plans and the Messel pit was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site on 9 December 1995. Significant scientific discoveries about the early evolution of mammals and birds are still being made at the Messel pit, and the site has increasingly become a tourist site as well.

wikipedia.org