Messel Pit Fossil Site
Messel, Germany
24.06.2018
The Messel Pit Fossil Site
The Messel Pit, located in Messel, Germany, is a remarkable site that has been recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1995. It is an important location for studying the evolution of mammals and plants during the Eocene period, approximately 47 million years ago. The site is also known for its exceptional preservation of fossils, making it a valuable resource for paleontologists and researchers.
The history of the Messel Pit dates back to the 19th century when it was first discovered by quarry workers. The area was a former quarry for oil shale, which was used for energy and industrial purposes. However, as excavation continued, it revealed a treasure trove of fossils from the Eocene era. These fossils were so well-preserved that they still contained soft tissues and even the contents of the animals' stomachs.
One of the most significant findings at the Messel Pit is the Eohippus, also known as the "dawn horse," which is considered to be the earliest known ancestor of the modern horse. Other notable fossils include primates, bats, birds, reptiles, and numerous plants. These fossils have provided valuable insights into the evolution of various species and their adaptations to the changing environment.
The Messel Pit is not only important for its scientific value but also for its aesthetic and educational significance. The site offers a glimpse into the diverse and lush environment of the Eocene period, with its numerous lakes, forests, and swamps. It also serves as a reminder of the fragility of our planet and the importance of preserving our natural heritage.
If you are interested in learning more about the Messel Pit and its fascinating fossils, you can visit the Messel Pit Fossil Site Museum, which is located near the site. The museum showcases a variety of fossils and exhibits that provide a deeper understanding of the Eocene period and its inhabitants.
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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 Formation is a geologic formation in Hesse, central Germany, dating back to the Eocene epoch (about 47 Ma). Its geographic range is restricted to the Messel pit. There it unconformably overlies crystalline Variscan basement and its Permian cover (Rotliegend) as well as Eocene volcanic breccias derived from the basement rocks. The formation mainly comprises lacustrine laminated bituminous shale (‘oil shale’) renowned for its content of fossils in exceptional preservation, particularly plants, arthropods and vertebrates (e.g. Darwinius masillae).
