Dachstein Formation, Limestone formation in Northern Alps, Austria
The Dachstein Formation is an extensive limestone formation in the Northern Alps that spans across multiple mountain ranges. Steep cliff faces and karst landscapes characterize the appearance, while underground a network of cave systems runs through the rock.
The formation developed during the late Triassic period, millions of years ago, when a shallow sea existed here. During this time, shells, skeletons and other remains of sea creatures accumulated and eventually compressed into stone.
The rock layers tell the story of when an ancient sea covered this region and life flourished in great variety. Visitors can see traces of this distant past in the cliff faces and understand how dramatically different the landscape once was.
The limestone foundation of the formation allows for straightforward exploration through a dense network of caves, many of which are accessible to visitors. Sturdy footwear is important since the paths go over rocky terrain and through cave passages.
Embedded in the stone are well-preserved fossils of sea shells like the giant Megalodus hoernesi, which lived here millions of years ago. Such finds have helped scientists understand what life in ancient oceans looked like.
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