Rábago-El Soplao fossil site

Rábago-El Soplao is an amber deposit site in Cantabria with dark lutite layers containing abundant pyrite and carbon-rich material that creates ideal conditions for fossil preservation in amber. The strata contain plentiful organic matter that allows insects and other organisms to be conserved.

The site was discovered in 2008 and explored through four excavation campaigns that produced numerous scientific publications about its geological features and amber characteristics. This research has significantly expanded our understanding of Cretaceous-era ecosystems.

Scientists from Spanish and international institutions work here to study the trapped insects and develop new paleontological methods. This collaboration has created an important exchange about prehistoric life forms and how they are preserved.

Access to the site is restricted and requires permission from Cantabria's Cultural Department. It lies about 3 kilometers from El Soplao Cave, so a visit can be combined with other nearby attractions.

The amber deposits contain preserved bryozoan colonies and annelid remains that indicate a marine environment during the Lower Cretaceous. These marine fossils are unusual and offer insights into ecosystems normally not found preserved in amber.