Fossil secrets of Slovenia uncovered: when mammoths and dinosaurs roamed our area

A groundbreaking exhibition has unveiled the hidden fossil treasures of Slovenia, revealing how mammoths and dinosaurs once roamed the region millions of years ago. The display, held in the basement rooms of a monastery in Kamnik, offered a glimpse into the ancient past, showcasing fossils that provide insight into the evolution of life on Earth. Dr. Rok Gašparič and Dr. Tomaž Hitij, two dedicated researchers and paleontologists, have been working tirelessly to bring these discoveries to the public through this temporary exhibit, which was part of the Kamfest cultural event. Their ultimate goal is to establish a permanent, modern, and interactive museum of evolution in Kamnik. The exhibition highlighted some of the most remarkable finds from Slovenia's rich geological history. Fossils discovered in the area reveal that millions of years ago, the region was home to a diverse range of prehistoric creatures. These include the oldest sea horses known to science, found near present-day Kamnik, and giant cave bears that once hid in the high mountain caves. Slovenia’s soil is a treasure trove of exceptional paleontological remains, offering an astonishing view into the long-term evolution and constant transformation of life on Earth. Over time, the landscape has changed dramatically, from tropical oceans and coral islands to cold glacial steppes, reflecting the environmental shifts recorded in the fossils. Dr. Rok Gašparič and Dr. Tomaž Hitij are more than just passionate enthusiasts; they are committed professionals who have made significant contributions to the field of paleontology. Gašparič holds a doctorate in paleontology but transitioned into the business world, currently serving as a manager at the technology company Nikon. His colleague, Dr. Tomaž Hitij, works at the Faculty of Medicine at the University of Ljubljana. Despite their professional careers, both dedicate substantial portions of their free time, and personal finances, to exploring and researching fossils. Their dedication has not gone unnoticed internationally, with Gašparič recently receiving the prestigious Mary Anning Award from the British Paleontological Society, named after the pioneering fossil collector who made invaluable contributions to the field despite not being a professional scientist herself. Their passion for paleontology began early in life. According to Dr. Hitij, many paleontologists are born when they pick up stones on the beach, and this fascination remains throughout their lives. Being an active paleontologist involves spending countless hours on arduous fieldwork in nature, followed by even more hours of meticulous research in laboratories. However, the effort is rewarded with unique excitement. “It’s like adrenaline, joy, luck when you find something interesting,” Gašparič explained, describing how the real magic happens when a fossil emerges from the rock under the preparator’s tools, revealing an ancient animal or plant. After the initial thrill, however, comes rigorous scientific work, protecting, preparing, analyzing, and determining whether the fossil might belong to a new species altogether. The exhibition featured a replica of the complete skeleton of a woolly mammoth discovered in Nevljeh near Kamnik, which is now housed in the Natural History Museum. This particular find was considered the most complete mammoth skeleton ever discovered in Central Europe. The replica was displayed alongside other fossils, providing visitors with a tangible connection to the distant past. The temporary exhibition attracted considerable interest during its brief run at Kamfest, serving as the first crucial step toward realizing the duo’s ambitious vision, a permanent museum dedicated to the story of evolution. Both researchers emphasized the importance of making these findings accessible to the broader public. They believe that such exhibits can inspire future generations of scientists and foster a deeper appreciation for the natural history of Slovenia. With their combined expertise and unwavering commitment, they continue to push forward, determined to transform their dream into reality. Their efforts underscore the significance of preserving and sharing the region’s paleontological heritage, ensuring that the stories of ancient life remain alive for all to discover.