Dinosaur Footprints of Vale de Meios

Category: Culture and Entertainment > Dinosaur Footprints

District: Santarém > Santarém > Vale da Trave

Location

The Vale de Meios Dinosaur Footprints are located in the area of Vale da Trave, part of the parish of Alcanede, in the municipality of Santarém. This remarkable site is integrated within the vast protected landscape of the Natural Park of Serras de Aire and Candeeiros, offering a natural and serene setting, typical of the region's limestone formations.

Traces of a Distant Past

The Vale de Meios Dinosaur Footprints represent one of the most notable Jurassic dinosaur footprint sites in the Iberian Peninsula. At this location, it is possible to observe over a thousand footprints, left by various species that roamed here approximately 168 million years ago. These fossilized marks, preserved in limestone, offer a unique window into the study of the anatomy, locomotion, and behavior of the dinosaurs that inhabited the Earth during the Middle Jurassic.

It is possible to distinguish tracks from different groups of dinosaurs, including the imposing sauropods, known for their herbivorous diet and large size, and also the agile theropods, indicating the diversity of life that flourished in this remote landscape.

A Valuable Paleontological Heritage

The importance of the Vale de Meios Dinosaur Footprints transcends national borders, being a site of recognized scientific relevance. Its exceptional value for geological and paleontological sciences establishes it as a reference point in the study of the planet's geological heritage.

Visiting the Site

For visitors, the area has undergone careful requalification aimed at protecting the footprints and providing a better observation experience. Boardwalks and fences have been installed, allowing visitors to explore the area safely and appreciate the traces without damaging them.

The requalification included terrain organization and the installation of informative panels. These panels complement the visit, offering context and deepening knowledge about the history and scientific significance of the discovered footprints.

License: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/deed.pt