Ovčín u Radnic, Paleontological site and coal mine near Radnice, Czech Republic
Ovčín u Radnic is a former coal quarry where fossilized plants are visible within the rock layers. The exposed walls show clear bands of sandstone and coal mixed with ancient plant material from when this area was tropical.
Mining here started in 1780 when the Saint George pit was opened. The operation continued for more than 200 years before closing in 1986.
The fossils here reveal what plant life looked like when this region was completely different. Visitors can observe which species once grew in this place and understand how nature shifted across deep time.
Today the site serves as a recreational area where visitors can view the exposed rock layers and fossils from ground level. Come during clear weather for better views and wear sturdy shoes since the ground is uneven.
This location preserves a petrified tropical forest that is over 300 million years old. The fossils show ferns, clubmosses, and horsetails that remained in their original positions when they grew here.
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