Gola del Bottaccione K-Pg Boundary
Witness the K-Pg boundary, a geological marker of the asteroid impact that ended the dinosaurs' reign, enriched with rare iridium.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Best for clear views
Gola del Bottaccione K-Pg Boundary
Best Time
Best for clear views
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Witness the K-Pg boundary, a geological marker of the asteroid impact that ended the dinosaurs' reign, enriched with rare iridium.
"Magnificent scenery and a perfect excursion for those interested in relevant geological events."
🎯 Choose the Right Parking
Take the first parking on the right when driving away from Spello for the best access.
🚶♀️ Enjoy the Scenic Walk
The walk to the boundary offers magnificent scenery, making the journey as rewarding as the destination.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The K-Pg Boundary Layer
Gola del Bottaccione
Witness the distinct layer rich in iridium, a key indicator of the asteroid impact that caused the dinosaur extinction.
Panoramic Walk
Path leading to the boundary
Enjoy a scenic stroll with magnificent views as you approach this scientifically significant geological site.
Iridium Enrichment Evidence
K-Pg Boundary Layer
Understand the scientific significance of iridium's rarity on Earth and its connection to celestial bodies and extinction events.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Geological Wonder Awaits
Access and Exploration
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Choose the Right Parking
Take the first parking on the right when driving away from Spello for the best access.
🚶♀️ Enjoy the Scenic Walk
The walk to the boundary offers magnificent scenery, making the journey as rewarding as the destination.
🔬 For Geology Enthusiasts
This site is perfect for those interested in geological events and the K-Pg extinction theory.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Choose the Right Parking
Take the first parking on the right when driving away from Spello for the best access.
🚶♀️ Enjoy the Scenic Walk
The walk to the boundary offers magnificent scenery, making the journey as rewarding as the destination.
🔬 For Geology Enthusiasts
This site is perfect for those interested in geological events and the K-Pg extinction theory.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Gola del Bottaccione for its significant geological importance, particularly the K-Pg boundary layer and its connection to the dinosaur extinction. The easy, panoramic walk and magnificent scenery are also highlighted as major positives. Some reviews are brief, indicating a straightforward and appreciated experience for those interested in the site's scientific value.
"Great and easy panoramic walk but be sure to take the right parking, the first one on the right hand side, driving up and away from Spello"
Dirk Meert
"Ok"
Salvatore Alaimo
"Magnificent scenery"
Pauline Vernon
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Gola del Bottaccione is accessible via a panoramic walk. Visitors recommend taking the first parking on the right when driving away from Spello for the most convenient access.
Yes, parking is available. It's advised to take the first parking lot on the right when heading away from Spello to ensure you're on the correct path.
A pleasant panoramic walk leads to the site, offering beautiful views along the way.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There are no specific tickets required for visiting the Gola del Bottaccione. It's an accessible natural site.
No, there are no entrance fees. The site is open for exploration as part of a scenic walk.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The main attraction is the K-Pg boundary layer, a geological marker showing an extreme enrichment in iridium, linked to the asteroid impact that caused the extinction of dinosaurs.
The iridium layer is significant because iridium is rare on Earth but common in celestial bodies. Its presence at the K-Pg boundary supports the theory that an asteroid impact caused the mass extinction event.
The walk is described as panoramic and easy, offering magnificent scenery.
Comfortable walking shoes are recommended for the panoramic walk.
Yes, the easy panoramic walk makes it suitable for families.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨🔬 Geology Enthusiasts
Take your time to appreciate the geological significance and the surrounding landscape. The easy walk makes it accessible for all, allowing you to focus on the scientific wonder of this location. Consider bringing a field guide or doing some research beforehand to enhance your understanding of the K-Pg boundary.
🚶♀️ Casual Sightseers
Remember the tip about parking: aim for the first lot on the right when heading away from Spello. This ensures a smooth start to your visit. It’s a low-crowd, high-reward experience for those who appreciate natural beauty and a bit of history.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Science Behind the Boundary
The presence of this iridium anomaly at the K-Pg boundary across the globe, including at Gubbio, strongly supports the hypothesis that a large celestial body struck Earth approximately 66 million years ago. The impact is believed to have triggered widespread environmental catastrophes, including global wildfires, tsunamis, and a prolonged period of darkness and cooling, ultimately leading to the extinction of about 75% of plant and animal species. Visiting the Gola del Bottaccione offers a unique opportunity to stand at this geological crossroads and contemplate one of Earth's most significant transformative moments.
Experiencing the Site
While the primary focus is the geological significance, the surrounding landscape adds to the overall experience. The walk itself is a pleasant way to connect with the natural beauty of the region before delving into the scientific importance of the boundary layer. It’s an accessible excursion for anyone interested in geology or simply seeking a scenic outdoor activity.
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