Stevns Klint
Sjælland
Stevns Klint is a striking 17-kilometer-long chalk cliff reaching heights of up to 41 meters, located on the southeast coast of Zealand, Denmark. It is globally renowned for its exceptionally preserved geological layer known as the fish clay, which marks the Cretaceous–Paleogene boundary about 66 million years ago. This layer contains an unusually high concentration of iridium, a rare metal associated with meteorites, providing critical evidence for the asteroid impact that led to the mass extinction event wiping out the dinosaurs. The cliff's upper layers consist of bryozoan limestone, historically quarried for building materials, including for Bishop Absalon's castle in Copenhagen. Stevns Klint was inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2014, recognized for its outstanding geological and paleontological significance. Visitors can explore the natural landscape, the interactive Stevns Klint Experience center, and nearby Boesdal Kalkbrud with its unique flora and fauna. The site also features chalk quarries and offers activities like guided tours, BMX biking, and immersive audio walks. Stevns Klint's combination of natural beauty, scientific importance, and cultural heritage makes it a unique destination for nature lovers, history enthusiasts, and geologists alike.
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Tip: The best time to visit Stevns Klint is during spring and early summer when the weather is pleasant and the local flora is in bloom. Visitors are encouraged to book guided tours in advance, especially for the interactive exhibition at the Stevns Klint Experience center. Children and youth under 18 enjoy free admission to the visitor center. For active visitors, renting a BMX bike to explore the Boesdal Kalkbrud quarry offers a thrilling experience, with helmets provided free of charge. Check opening hours ahead, especially around Easter when special events and activities are held. Consider combining your visit with a walk along the cliff to fully appreciate the geological formations and stunning views.
Interesting facts
- •Stevns Klint features one of the world's most visible and continuous exposures of the Cretaceous–Paleogene boundary layer.
- •The iridium-rich fish clay layer at Stevns was key evidence supporting the asteroid impact theory for dinosaur extinction.
- •Bishop Absalon sourced limestone from Stevns Klint for constructing his castle in Copenhagen.
- •The cliff was historically quarried until the 1940s, with chalk used in building and paper production.
- •Stevns Klint was inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List in 2014 for its outstanding geological significance.
History
Stevns Klint's chalk formations were deposited during the late Cretaceous period, with the distinctive fish clay layer dating to approximately 66 million years ago, marking the boundary between the Cretaceous and Paleogene periods.
Historically, the cliff's bryozoan limestone was quarried from medieval times until the 1940s, supplying building materials for notable structures such as Bishop Absalon's castle in Copenhagen.
The discovery of the iridium-rich fish clay layer at Stevns in the 20th century contributed significantly to the Alvarez hypothesis of an asteroid impact causing the mass extinction event.
In 2014, Stevns Klint was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site, recognizing its global geological importance.
Today, the site preserves both natural and cultural heritage, including remnants of chalk quarries and educational facilities that interpret its scientific legacy.
Place Guide
Stevns Klint Experience Center2022
An interactive visitor center opened in 2022 featuring exhibits about the asteroid impact that caused the dinosaur extinction, including VR experiences and educational displays about the site's geology and natural history.
Boesdal Kalkbrud QuarryHistorical quarry, now a protected area
A former chalk quarry now serving as a nature reserve and recreational area, featuring unique plants and animals, hiking trails, and BMX biking opportunities.
Contact
Phone: 30 34 22 79
