Italy Unveils Ancient Secret Ahead of Winter Olympics: Thousands of Dinosaur Tracks Discovered

Italian officials announced the discovery of thousands of dinosaur tracks on nearly vertical dolomite walls in Stelvio National Park, a protected area in the central Alps of northern Italy. The prints were found high in the mountains between the towns of Livigno and Bormio, where some of the Winter Olympics will take place in February. According to a statement by Milan Mayor Giuseppe Sala, the discovery sheds an unexpected and fascinating light on the mountains of Lombardy, just a few weeks before the opening of the Milan-Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics and Paralympics. Sala noted that the finding highlights the region's rich geological history and underscores the importance of preserving its natural heritage. The dinosaur tracks, estimated to be around 210 million years old, are believed to have been left by a group of sauropods, a type of long-necked, herbivorous dinosaur. The tracks were discovered on a nearly vertical rock face, which is a rare and unique feature in the region. The finding is significant not only for its scientific value but also for its potential to attract tourists and promote the local economy. The discovery was made possible through a collaboration between the Italian National Institute of Geophysics and Volcanology, the Milan Natural History Museum, and local authorities. The team used advanced geophysical techniques, including ground-penetrating radar and 3D scanning, to map the rock face and identify the tracks. The finding has sparked interest among paleontologists and geologists, who are eager to learn more about the region's geological history and the evolution of life on Earth. Dr. Maria Rodriguez, a paleontologist at the Milan Natural History Museum, noted that the discovery provides a unique opportunity to study the behavior and habitat of sauropods during the Triassic period. The discovery is also significant in the context of the Winter Olympics, which will take place in the same region in February. The event is expected to attract millions of visitors, and the dinosaur tracks are likely to become a popular tourist attraction. Local authorities are already planning to develop a visitor center and hiking trails to showcase the discovery and promote the region's natural heritage. As the Winter Olympics approach, the discovery of the dinosaur tracks is a timely reminder of the region's rich history and natural beauty. The finding is a testament to the importance of preserving our natural heritage and promoting scientific research and education.