Triassic Center

PA-LEN-TO-LO-GY – a tricky word to pronounce, but easy to experience: at the Triassic Centre, you’ll be trained step by step, across two levels, to become real prehistoric explorers. Set in the heart of the mountains, completely weather-proof and ideal for families who want to discover, marvel and experiment together. Here, you’ll dive into the ancient Tethys Sea, examine fossilised corals up close and learn how cliffs and the seabed of the ancient sea were transformed into stone slabs. Everything is designed so that children learn through play – whilst adults discover plenty of new things about the Earth’s history.

At the Triassic Centre, you’ll experience the formation of the Steinplatte through an interactive journey through time. Instead of dry theory, there are plenty of interactive stations waiting to be discovered:

• Interactive stations where you can playfully discover why certain animal species became extinct – and what they would have needed to survive.
• Ammonite Kick game – here you’ll aim, kick and, whilst you’re at it, learn what these fascinating prehistoric creatures looked like.
• A mini cinema showing an exciting short film that explains the formation of the Steinplatte, from the ancient Tethys Sea to today’s mountainous region – with images that will stay with you.
• A small but lovely shop with a wide range of souvenirs – from dinosaur trinkets and fossil-themed items to original mementos

The Triassic Centre is particularly suitable for families with children aged around 4 to 12 – younger children are amazed by the colours, figures and pictures, whilst older children curiously immerse themselves in the exhibits and experiments.

At the research camp, watching turns into proper research. Here, it’s all about getting stuck in and giving things a go.

You can:

• estimate the age of fossils and learn how researchers determine it
• see the tiniest details in a whole new light at magnifying glass and research tables
• examine and compare your own finds at the Research Camp
• try out the fossil press to see how moulds can be turned into lasting mementos

These stations are ideal for curious children – and for any adults who want to become explorers once again.

Much of the content explores themes you’ll encounter later out on the Triassic Trail. This means you’ll be well prepared when you step outside after your visit to the Triassic Centre and continue exploring prehistory in the great outdoors.

The Triassic Centre is your ‘guarantee of good weather’ – and, at the same time, your plan for bad weather in the mountains. Even if it’s raining, windy or the clouds are low outside, you can spend a morning or afternoon here.

The stalactite cave is also a great place for a quick stop – an atmospheric glimpse into the underground world beneath the Steinplatte, which you can easily combine with your visit to the Triassic Centre, depending on the weather and how much time you have.

Good to know:

• perfect for rainy days or when the weather’s unpredictable
• exciting indoor experiences for children and adults
• ideal for combining with short outdoor highlights

We recommend: Make the most of bad-weather days by visiting the Triassic Centre – with a quick detour to the stalactite cave, even a rainy day becomes a special experience in the mountains