Searching for fossils usually means visiting cliffs, quarries, or coasts. However, sometimes remarkable specimens can be found in unexpected places. During a visit to Germany, Mike of Everything Dinosaur found himself fossil hunting inside Nuremberg Airport. Numerous Jurassic fossils at Nuremberg airport were observed.
A cross-section of a cephalopod fossil spotted in the floor at Nuremberg airport (Germany). The specimen is probably an ammonite. However, the lack of clear suture lines prevents discounting this fossil as a nautiloid. Picture credit: Everything Dinosaur.
Picture credit: Everything Dinosaur
Hunting for Jurassic Fossils at Nuremberg Airport
This region of southern Germany is famous for its limestone quarries. The strata were formed in the Jurassic and consist largely of marine deposits. Limestone is used in many buildings in the region. Consequently, the stones used in the construction date back to the Jurassic. When these limestones are cut and polished, fossil details often become strikingly visible. As a result, the airport floor itself becomes a fossil display.
The picture (below) shows an ammonite model next to a polished section of an ammonite fossil. The model is from the Bullyworld model range.
To view the range of Bullyworld prehistoric animal figures in stock: Bullyworld Prehistoric Animal Models.
The Bullyland ammonite model is often used in museum displays to depict the living animal next to fossil material. Picture credit: Everything Dinosaur.
Picture credit: Everything Dinosaur
While walking through the terminal, Mike paused to examine the polished stone tiles. Embedded within them were clear examples of Jurassic marine invertebrates. These included coiled ammonites, nautiloids, and numerous belemnite guards. Each fossil is a record of life from a Jurassic marine environment.
A close-up view of one of the numerous Jurassic Fossils at Nuremberg airport. The specimen in question is very probably an ammonite. Picture credit: Everything Dinosaur.
Picture credit: Everything Dinosaur
Fossils Under Your Feet
Importantly, thousands of travellers walk across these stones every day. Yet, most never notice the scientific treasures beneath their feet. This highlights how fossils can surround us in everyday environments, not just museums or at dig sites.
So, where have you spotted a fossil in an unexpected place? Perhaps in a building, pavement, or even a kitchen worktop? We would love to hear your discoveries.
The award-winning Everything Dinosaur website: Prehistoric Animal Models and Figures.
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