The majestic Monte San Giorgio stands tall at an elevation of 1097 meters nestled between the shores of Lake Lugano. This mountain, shaped like a pyramid holds a collection of fossils, from the Middle Triassic period spanning approximately 245 to 230 million years ago. The remarkable variety of fossils found here resulted in its designation, as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in the year 2003.
Monte San Giorgio: Ticino’s Lush Forested Jewel with Hidden Caves and Rare Plants
The southern part of Ticinos canton boasts the enchanting Monte San Giorgio, cloaked in forests that enhance its charm. This region serves as a sanctuary, for plant species enriching its value. Explorers can also uncover caves within the mountain unveiling more of Monte San Giorgios secrets.
Monte San Giorgio is not a natural wonder but also a repository of our planets history. Its blend of beauty and scientific importance attracts nature enthusiasts, scientists and adventurous souls alike making it a captivating destination, for all.
San Giorgio UNESCO World Heritage
Monte San Giorgio has been a hub, for fossil research since the century attracting paleontologists. They have uncovered a wealth of fish and marine dinosaurs some reaching lengths of up to six meters. This abundance is attributed to a sea basin that existed around 243 to 239 million years ago with a depth of 100 meters. As the Alps began forming 90 million years the seabed in what is now Monte San Giorgio was thrust upward creating a mountain. Today this mountain stands proudly at the tip of Lake Lugano in a pyramid shape housing a treasure trove of fossils within its depths.
Numerous excavation sites have yielded around 80 fish species and 30 species of marine and land reptiles. Additionally researchers have uncovered hundreds of invertebrate species and plants dating back to the Middle Triassic period, between 243 and 239 million years ago.
The fossil museum, in Meride, which Ticino architect Mario Botta. Expanded, showcases a variety of animals and plants from the exceptional UNESCO World Heritage Site of Monte San Giorgio. Through illustrations, virtual animations and models visitors can immerse themselves in the world that once existed there.
Apart from visiting Monte San Giorgio it’s worthwhile to stroll along the slopes of the hill amidst vineyards explore the charming village of Meride or savor delicious local cuisine at the traditional grottos, in Mendrisiotto. There are ways to experience and appreciate the beauty and richness of this area.
Video Live from the summit of Monte San Giorgio
Nature at Your Door goes on the road. Monte San Giorgio is a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for the most important Triassic marine fossil bed in the world. It was a 7 mile round trip hike for me from Capolago train station and 2860 feet of elevation gain. View over Lugano Lake in the Italian speaking Canton of Ticino in Switzerland.
The video is embedded by YouTube and only loads when you click on the play button. Learn more: Privacy policy