Chöpfi, Protected geological formation in Winterthur, Switzerland.
Chöpfi is a protected geological formation near Winterthur featuring distinctive sandstone pinnacles composed of molasse, sandstone, and calcium carbonate layers. These formations rose from the ground through selective erosion processes that affected the different mineral compositions.
The sandstone formations developed approximately 15 million years ago during the mid-Miocene period. Over time, differential weathering of the layered deposits gradually exposed the pinnacles we see today.
The site functions as an educational destination where students and researchers study geological processes and sedimentary rock formations.
The site is accessible on foot from Winterthur via marked paths and features information panels explaining the formations. Visiting during drier periods makes for easier walking and better views of the pinnacles.
The sandstone pinnacles display unusual bulbous heads shaped by selective cementation of different mineral layers. This distinctive pattern of weathering creates shapes rarely seen in other rock formations.
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