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Vetygalos Atodanga: A Window into Lithuania's Ancient Past

Explore ancient geological history at Vetygalos Atodanga, a stunning natural monument in Anykščiai, Lithuania, with 400-million-year-old rock layers.

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Vetygalos Atodanga, or the Vetygala Exposure, is a geological monument in the Anykščiai District of Lithuania, revealing layers of the Earth dating back approximately 400 million years. This impressive cliff face on the bank of the Šventoji River offers visitors a glimpse into the region's ancient history and stunning natural beauty.

A brief summary to Vetygalos atodanga

  • Anykščiai District Municipality, 29255, LT
  • Monday 12 am-12 am
  • Tuesday 12 am-12 am
  • Wednesday 12 am-12 am
  • Thursday 12 am-12 am
  • Friday 12 am-12 am
  • Saturday 12 am-12 am
  • Sunday 12 am-12 am

Local tips

  • Visit during the early morning or late afternoon for the best lighting for photography.
  • Wear comfortable shoes, as the trails can be uneven in some areas.
  • Check the local weather forecast to plan your visit for optimal conditions.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the Anykščiai Treetop Walking Path, head south on the main road (A16) towards Anykščiai town. After approximately 3 kilometers, turn left onto the road marked with signs for Vetygalos Atodanga. Continue for about 1 kilometer until you reach the parking area for Vetygalos Atodanga. The total walking distance is around 4 kilometers and will take approximately 1 hour. Make sure to wear comfortable shoes and carry water.

  • Public Transport

    From Anykščiai, take a local bus towards Vetygala. Check the local bus schedules for the most up-to-date information, as the schedule may vary. The bus will drop you off near Vetygalos Atodanga. From the bus stop, it is a short walk to the geological site. A single bus fare typically costs around €1.

  • Car

    From Anykščiai, head south on road 120 towards Radiškis. Follow the road for approximately 8 kilometers until you see signs for Vetygalos Atodanga. Turn right onto the smaller road leading to the site. Continue for about 1 kilometer until you reach the parking area for Vetygalos Atodanga. Parking is available near the site. There might be a small fee for parking.

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Discover more about Vetygalos atodanga

Vetygalos Atodanga, also known as Žėbos kalnas (Žėbos Mountain), is a remarkable geological formation located in the Anykščiai region of Lithuania. Situated on the right bank of the Šventoji River, roughly 100 meters from the Virinta River's mouth, this exposure reveals pre-glacial layers dating back approximately 400 million years to the Devonian period. These layers consist of light quartz and mica sand, offering a unique glimpse into the ancient geological history of the area. The cliff face stands approximately 25 meters high from the Šventoji River's water level, with an absolute height of about 85 meters above sea level and a width of around 30 meters. Designated as a geological monument in 1964, Vetygalos Atodanga is one of the largest pre-Quaternary formations in Lithuania. The impressive rock layers contain fossilized remains of armored fish, dating back 300 to 350 million years. These fish, known as Asterolepis radiata Rohon, are primitive and without skeletons and were entered into the Lithuanian Book of Records in 1993 as the oldest fish remains found in Lithuania. In 1962, the construction of the Kavarskas dam caused the Šventoji River to flood the suprasalpine terrace at the base of Žėbos kalnas, widening the riverbed in this area. Today, Vetygalos Atodanga is a popular tourist destination, featuring stairs, trails, and observation decks that offer panoramic views of the Šventoji River and the surrounding forests.

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