Lagosteiros Ichnofossil Site

Category: Culture and Entertainment > Tourist Attraction

District: Setúbal > Sesimbra > Castelo

Location

The Lagosteiros Ichnofossil Site is located in the Cabo Espichel area, in the municipality of Sesimbra. This site is on the western slope of the cape, at a high elevation above the Atlantic, overlooking Praia dos Lagosteiros. Its surroundings are of a rugged natural beauty, marked by imposing cliffs and a marine landscape that conveys a profound sense of antiquity and isolation. The path to the site involves pedestrian access that requires attention, due to the steep slope and the nature of the terrain.

A Window into the Cretaceous

This remarkable geological formation offers a direct glimpse into a remote past, dating back approximately 130 to 120 million years, during the Lower Cretaceous period. At that time, the area was a vast flatland, characterized by waterlogged and swampy terrains, an ideal environment for the life of large prehistoric reptiles. With the passage of geological eras, these sediments transformed into limestone rock, uniquely preserving the traces of dinosaur passages.

The Trails of Ancient Inhabitants

At the site, it is possible to observe the trails left by different types of dinosaurs, imprinted in the yellowish-brown limestone. Particularly noteworthy are two tracks of bipedal animals: one attributed to a carnivorous dinosaur and another to a herbivore, each with its specific orientation. One of the most remarkable tracks features large footprints, extending over a significant portion of the escarpment. It is also possible to discern marks of theropods, carnivorous dinosaurs that moved on two legs and left tridactyl footprints, revealing the pointed impressions of their claws.

Unique Geological Heritage

Recognized for its invaluable scientific and natural worth, the Lagosteiros Site was classified as a Natural Monument. This classification underscores its importance as a place of study and admiration, where the history of Earth is manifested so explicitly. The conservation of these ichnofossils allows us to understand not only the morphology and behavior of the dinosaurs that inhabited the region, but also the environmental conditions that prevailed millions of years ago. The site is also integrated into the beauty and geological complexity of the Arrábida Natural Park.

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