Karlstein, Glacial erratic in Neu Wulmstorf, Germany
Karlstein is a glacial boulder from Scandinavia that rises prominently in Neu Wulmstorf and impresses with its size and visible surface features. The stone displays rough textures and scratches that bear witness to its long journey through the ice.
The stone was transported from Scandinavia to northern Germany roughly 12,000 years ago by glaciers and has remained there as a silent reminder of the ice age. The last ice age shaped the entire landscape and left numerous such boulders scattered throughout the region.
The boulder takes its name from a local figure named Karl and was protected by the community as a natural monument. People in the region visit this stone to understand its age and the forces that brought it to their landscape.
The boulder is accessible via marked trails in Neu Wulmstorf and sits in an open, easy-to-reach area. Informational signs on site explain the geological origins and make the visit self-guided.
The boulder's surface bears distinct scratches and grooves that are direct traces of glacier movement, appearing like a natural history book. These fine details allow visitors to comprehend the physical forces that moved the stone across thousands of kilometers.
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