The Messel Pit fossil deposit has been Germany's first UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1995. It provides a unique insight into the early evolution of mammals and documents the history of the earth's development 48 million years ago, when explosive changes characterised the animal and plant world following the extinction of the dinosaurs.

Numerous fossils from the Eocene period have been recovered from the Maar volcanic lake, which was formed 48 million years ago, and new finds are added every year. In addition to the high number and diversity of animal and plant fossils, the unique preservation of full-body skeletons, skin and fur shadows, feathers and stomach contents is also of particular interest in the Messel Pit.

The pit has a diameter of approx. 1000 metres and is about 60 metres deep. The Messel Pit, a former open-cast oil shale mine, can be visited as part of a guided tour. Visitors to this site will be amazed at the variety of topics covered, which is also reflected in the museum exhibition right on the edge of the pit, which can be explored during opening hours. The topics covered include industrial history, landscape, volcanism, rainforest and evolution. The highlight is probably our treasure chamber with original fossils of prehistoric horses, crocodiles and the like.

Partner of the DARMSTADT CARD:

2 for 1: two regular tickets for the price of one

15 March - 15 November: Monday - Sunday: 10.00 a.m. - 5.00 p.m.

16 November - 14 March: Wednesday - Sunday: 10.00 a.m. - 5.00 p.m.

open on public holidays, except 24-26 December; 31 December and 1 January