Vértesszőlős Archaeological Site
Komárom-Esztergom
The Vértesszőlős Archaeological Site in Komárom-Esztergom county, Hungary, is a significant prehistoric location where the fossilized remains of a Middle Pleistocene human, known as 'Samu', were discovered. This site, situated at the foot of the Gerecse Mountains, reveals evidence of early human habitation dating back approximately 350,000 years, including tools, animal bones, and fossilized footprints. Excavations led by archaeologist László Vértes between 1963 and 1968 uncovered multiple cultural layers from the Lower Paleolithic period, making it the first complex prehistoric site of its kind in Central Europe. Today, the area is a protected natural reserve of 38 hectares and serves as an open-air museum managed by the Hungarian National Museum, where visitors can explore the well-preserved remains and learn about early human life and environmental conditions. The site's geological features include limestone formations created by ancient thermal springs, which contributed to the preservation of artifacts and fossils. Vértesszőlős also holds historical significance through its continuous habitation by various peoples over centuries, including Celts, Romans, and Hungarians, and it has witnessed key historical events such as battles and settlement transformations. The archaeological site offers a unique insight into prehistoric human activity and the natural history of the region, making it a compelling destination for those interested in early human evolution and archaeology.
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Consiglio: Visitors are advised to check the opening hours before visiting and consider purchasing tickets in advance during peak seasons to avoid queues. The best time to visit is during spring and autumn when the weather is mild, enhancing the outdoor experience of the open-air museum. Discounts are often available for students, seniors, and groups. Guided tours can enrich the visit by providing detailed insights into the archaeological findings and the site's significance. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended due to the site's natural terrain.
Fatti interessanti
- •The fossil known as 'Samu' is a partial skull of a Homo erectus individual dating back about 350,000 years.
- •Vértesszőlős was the first complex Lower Paleolithic site discovered in Central Europe.
- •Fossilized footprints of prehistoric animals and even a human footstep have been found at the site.
- •The limestone deposits preserving the site were formed by ancient thermal springs rich in calcium carbonate.
- •The archaeological site covers a 38-hectare protected nature reserve area.
- •The village nearby has a historical church built in 1792 by Slovak settlers.
- •Napoleon's armies built ramparts in the village during their 1809 invasion of Hungary.
Storia
The Vértesszőlős site was discovered in the early 1960s when geographer Márton Pécsi found prehistoric remains in a limestone quarry.
Subsequently, excavations led by László Vértes between 1963 and 1968 revealed a Lower Paleolithic human settlement dating back around 350,000 years.
The remains included the partial skull of a Homo erectus individual named 'Samu', stone tools, and fossilized animal footprints.
Since 1968, the site has been preserved as an archaeological open-air museum and declared a nature conservation area in 1976.
Over centuries, the surrounding village of Vértesszőlős has been inhabited by various groups, including Celts, Romans, and Hungarians, with notable historical events such as the construction of ramparts during Napoleon's invasion in 1809 and local involvement in both World Wars.
Guida del luogo
Open-Air Archaeological Exhibition1963-1968
A carefully designed outdoor museum showcasing the excavation site, including fossil remains, stone tools, and footprints preserved under protective structures.
Natural Limestone TerracesPleistocene epoch
Geological formations created by ancient thermal springs depositing calcium carbonate, which played a key role in preserving the archaeological layers.
Contatto
Telefono: 06 30 578 5116