The story of the Pannonian Sea is being brought to life in Šentil

In Šentilj, a small town on the border with Austria, local authorities have revived the story of the Pannonian Sea through an interactive exhibition and a creative workshop. The exhibit, located at the Regional Tourist Centre Septaria, showcases the rich marine life that once thrived in the area during the Miocene epoch, approximately 20 to 13 million years ago. At that time, the region was covered by a shallow sea teeming with corals, sea urchins, starfish, snails, clams, crabs, and numerous annelids ranging from fish bones to the largest sea dogs. These fossils, along with the sedimentary rocks that form today’s land around Šentilj, provide a glimpse into this ancient marine environment. The exhibition offers visitors an immersive experience, allowing them to explore the history of the Pannonian Sea through interactive displays. The materials displayed include fossils such as clams, sea urchins, and teeth from sea dogs, among other finds. These artifacts highlight the biodiversity of the region during its time as part of the Pannonian Sea. The exhibition is open to the public, though advance notice is required for visits. Interested individuals can contact the tourist centre via phone at 02 65 06 221 or email at [email protected], with visiting hours set from 8 to 15. On Tuesday, August 18, a special workshop will take place at the Cultural and Educational House Vlada Pipana in Šentilj. Organized by the Šentilj Tourism Association, the session titled “When This Was the Sea” will feature talks by Jelka Weldt, a retired principal of Rudolf Maister Primary School in Šentilj and a teacher of history and geography. Weldt will share stories about the era when the area was part of the Pannonian Sea. The workshop will be followed by hands-on activities led by mentors Polona Tomazic and Matej Valh, who will guide participants in creating art using shells and natural materials. The event aims to engage children and their parents, as well as grandparents and great-grandparents, offering both educational insights and entertainment through creative expression. Participants are encouraged to join the workshop to learn more about the Pannonian Sea and enjoy the process of artistic creation. The event reflects the community's commitment to preserving and sharing its geological and historical heritage. It also highlights the importance of involving all generations in understanding and appreciating the past. Through these initiatives, Šentilj continues to celebrate its unique connection to the Pannonian Sea, blending education with cultural engagement.