The Langhe landscape of today emerged after the expanse of water known as the Padan Sea retreated, as transported sediment accumulated and the seabed rose. At the time, the Padan Sea was linked with the Ligurian Sea.
Sand and marine sediment built up and these, together with seashells, fossils, cetacean and fish skeletons, prove the marine origins of the Langhe soil.
These rare finds are part of the history and the geological identity of the Langhe.
However, their inaccessibility means they often remain in the background despite being well-known to winegrowers and others familiar with the area.
Evidence from millions of years ago often comes to light when a deeper section of earth is turned over or a rock is split.
The central part of southern Piedmont is famous throughout Italy for its fossil remains of marine invertebrates and vertebrates alike, such as the dolphins, whales and sharks discovered in the Asti area several years ago.
To both safeguard and inform, natural reserves and protected areas, museums and circuits and itineraries have been established in the region.
Geosites, those areas with strong scientific, environmental and geological interest within the Piedmontese territory are both natural and cultural goods that ought to be promoted for their historic and cultural value.
The Eusebio museum in Alba has three sections devoted to anthropology, archaeology and natural science.
Fossilised imprints of plants and fish skeletons from millions of years ago are on view in the museum.
Fossil finds in the Sant’Agatha marl that date from when the Alba area was submerged show that vegetation on the shores of the ancient sea was subtropical.
The fossil path is a circuit managed by the Ecomuseum of the Rocche del Roero that can be followed both on foot or by mountain bike.
The paleontological museum in Asti has an exhibition of whale and dolphin remains discovered in Piedmont, on until September 2022.
Among the exhibits are the only example of the San Marzanotto rorqual whale ever found, the remains of the most ancient Mediterranean whale, discovered in Moleto in Alessandria province, together with other whales, fossil seashells and dolphins.
A permanent display describing the main geo-paleontological events from up to 25 million years ago is adjacent.
Don’t miss a dip into the past with this exhibition!
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