The Sardona Geopark wants to show the Earth’s history in one place in Switzerland. It covers parts of St. Gallen, Glarus, and Graubünden. The main part is the Tectonic Arena Sardona, which has the amazing Glarus Thrust rock formation.
UNESCO World Natural Heritage Site Tectonic Arena Sardona with Martinsloch and Tschingelhörnern
Sardona: How does old rock come over young rock?
The captivating plate tectonics, along the mountain slopes in Sardona, a UNESCO World Heritage Site resemble a mural. The Tschingelhörner in the Elm region stand out as an example. Here you can clearly observe a line linking the younger rock below to the older rock above.
In 2008 the Sardona Tectonic Arena was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This area was inscribed on the World Heritage List with a coverage of 32,850 hectares. It is recognized as a picturesque gem that captivates visitors with its unparalleled charm and beauty.
The designation of the Sardona Tectonic Arena as a UNESCO World Heritage Site stems from its significance and distinct rock formations. The layers of rock from the Glarus Thrust shaped by forces are prominently visible here. These layers, which consist of rocks, from the Palaeozoic era were thrust on top of each other during a process approximately 300 million years ago.
UNESCO Sardona in winter with Martinsloch and Tschingelhörnern
The remarkable aspect of the Tectonic Arena Sardona lies in its preserved display of a phenomenon. The rock layers vividly showcase the displacement. Folding that occurred during the process making it an exceptional location, for studying plate tectonics and the earths geological evolution.
Being designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site highlights the scientific significance and exceptional universal value of the Tectonic Arena Sardona. It not acts as a geological record but also serves as an educational and research hub allowing visitors and scientists to delve into the intriguing history and dynamics of our planet.
The UNESCO World Heritage Site Tectonic Arena Sardona impresses in Elm with the majestic Tschingelhörner and Martinsloch. It is the Glarner main overthrust.
Further information at: UNESCO World Heritage Site Sardona
Video UNESCO Weltnaturerbe Sardona
Das UNESCO Welterbe Sardona Gebiet lädt dank Martinsloch, Segnesböden, Klettergarten und kilometerweiter Fernsicht zum Träumen und Verweilen für Gross und Klein.
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