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La Dalle aux Ammonites: A Journey Through Time

Explore a Jurassic-era seabed in France's Haute-Provence Geopark, where thousands of ammonite fossils tell tales of ancient marine life.

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La Dalle aux Ammonites is an open-air museum near Digne-les-Bains, France, showcasing a remarkable collection of over 1,500 ammonite fossils dating back to the Jurassic period. Embedded in a limestone slab, these ancient marine creatures offer a glimpse into prehistoric life.

A brief summary to La Dalle aux Ammonites

  • Monday 8:30 am-12:30 pm
  • Tuesday 8:30 am-12:30 pm
  • Wednesday 8:30 am-12:30 pm
  • Thursday 8:30 am-12:30 pm
  • Friday 8:30 am-12:30 pm
  • Saturday 8:30 am-12:30 pm
  • Sunday 9:30 am-12 pm

Local tips

  • Visit in the morning for quieter surroundings and optimal lighting for photography.
  • Wear comfortable walking shoes, as the terrain can be uneven.
  • Check the schedule for guided tours to gain deeper insights into the fossils.
  • Bring water, especially during the summer months.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the center of Digne-les-Bains, it's approximately a 10 km walk to La Dalle aux Ammonites, taking around 2 hours. Head northeast on Avenue des Thermes and continue onto Route de Barles, following this road directly to the site. Ensure you have comfortable shoes and water.

  • Public Transport

    Take a train to Digne-les-Bains from major cities in Provence. From the Digne-les-Bains train station, a taxi to La Dalle aux Ammonites costs approximately €15-€20. Alternatively, take the local bus line 2 towards Champourcin and get off near the D900a, from where it is a short walk to the site. Check local bus schedules for accurate timings.

  • Car

    From the A51 motorway, follow signs towards Digne-les-Bains. Once in Digne-les-Bains, take Route de Barles and continue for about 10 km until you reach La Dalle aux Ammonites. Parking is available near the site. Parking fees may apply depending on the season.

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Discover more about La Dalle aux Ammonites

La Dalle aux Ammonites, located a short distance from Digne-les-Bains, is a geological treasure and one of the most emblematic sites within the UNESCO Geopark of Haute Provence. This extraordinary open-air museum features a large rock strata, inclined at 60°, bearing over 1,500 fossilized ammonites. These fossils, primarily of the species Coroniceras multicostatum, date back approximately 200 million years to the Lower Jurassic period. Some of the largest ammonites measure up to 70 cm in diameter. The site offers visitors a unique opportunity to walk among these ancient marine fossils, preserved in a 320 square meter area. The ammonite slab provides insights into the region's geological history and the diversity of life in the Jurassic seas. Discovered in 1941 during roadworks, the site was further excavated in 1979 and later expanded to its current size by the Geological Reserve of Haute-Provence. Visitors can explore the site and learn about the geological forces that created this unique environment. Informative displays enhance understanding of paleontology and environmental changes. Guided tours are available for those seeking a deeper dive into the science behind these ancient relics. Recent enhancements have made the site accessible to all, including those with reduced mobility, thanks to the installation of an observation platform. The site also serves as a starting point for several hiking trails, allowing visitors to further explore the surrounding area.

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