SHARRYLAND
Where is
What it is and where it is
Places, when explored at a slow pace and with an open and relaxed mind, tell us stories of the most varied kind. That of the Novale Pits is a tumultuous adventure of fire and water, so ancient that it is preserved in the heart of the rocks we tread. This area, in fact, is an important fossiliferous deposit that is about 50 million years old! It lies within a large depression, most likely caused by a volcanic explosion. And as in the song, after the fire came the water, creating a brackish basin rich in life: plants, algae, fish, mollusks--how do we know? Many are still here, etched into the stones.
Why it is special
The best way to dive into this tale is taught to us by Indiana Jones. Okay, maybe we leave the guns and supervillains at home, but let's dress comfortably, because what we'll be doing once we get there will be an authentic exploration in a place shrouded in vegetation, so much so that it will feel like time travel in an almost tropical setting.
Not to be missed
Although this visit is already proving to be an adventure, we can add a little more spice, which never hurts. Beware then, know that the Novale Pits are also known for the presence among the eroded sands of volcanic origin, and numerous minerals including ilmenite, zircons and small sapphires. That's right, you got it right! Let's face it, it's a very difficult search and it takes a fair amount of skill and luck, but wouldn't it be fascinating to spot a small gemstone along the way?
A bit of history
The importance of the deposit is also evidenced by the many scholars who analyzed the fossil flora from the Novale Pits. Among them we can remember Xenophon Squinabol and Abraham Massalongo, an important botanist who also observed and studied the fossil flora of Bolca.
Enter the Map of Italy's Undiscovered Wonders and find treasures where you least expect it... Inspire, Recommend, Share...
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Enter the Map of Italy's Undiscovered Wonders and find treasures where you least expect it... Inspire, Recommend, Share...
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