Did you know that you are standing on a land that whispers tales from hundreds of millions of years ago? Welcome to Geopark Barrandien. It is a place where time is measured not in years or centuries but in geological eras.
Geopark Barrandien spans three regions. These are the Prague, Central Bohemia, and Plzeň regions. Imagine a vast area of 4316.3 square kilometers. Within this area, Prague covers 264.8 square kilometers. Central Bohemia has 2121.2 square kilometers. Plzeň boasts 1930.3 square kilometers.
This geopark is divided into seven fascinating areas. These include Prague and its surroundings and Berounsko. Also included are Brdy, Brdy Hřebeny, Rakovnicko, Radnicko, and Plzeňsko. Each area offers unique geological insights.
The area has four main geological formations from the early Paleozoic era. These are the Cambrian, Ordovician, Silurian, and Devonian periods.
The profiles and outcrops here might not be as massive as in other global sites. However, their diversity is captivating. The best profiles are easily accessible. You can reach them by bike, foot, boat, train, or even tram.
Geopark Barrandien is home to key sites for Lower Paleozoic stratigraphy. These sites are globally recognized. The uninterrupted sequence at the Silurian-Devonian boundary is particularly significant.
In 2020, Geopark Barrandien received national geopark certification. This was awarded by the Minister of the Environment.
From a geographical perspective, the geopark lies within the Poberounská subprovince. This area includes the Brdy region and the Plzeň Highlands. Specifically, it covers the Brdy region. It also encompasses the Prague Plain and the Hořovice Highlands. You’ll also find the southeastern edge of the Křivoklát Highlands here. The Plzeň Highlands include the Rakovník and Plaská Highlands. Lastly, the Švihov Highlands are part of it.
The highest point in the geopark reaches 862 meters near Prague. The lowest point is 186 meters on the Vltava Riverbank. The geological map highlights the area’s geological significance.
Geopark Barrandien is more than just rocks and fossils. It is a journey through time. It showcases the dynamic history of our planet. The geopark offers a unique opportunity to explore geological wonders. It combines education and recreation. So, as you explore, remember that you are walking through millions of years of history.