The history of palaeontological research and excavations at Monte San Giorgio

Monte San Giorgio has yielded exceptionally well-preserved Middle Triassic vertebrate fossils over centuries of palaeontological research. Initial discoveries in the mid-19th century during black shale mining near Besano, Italy, sparked international interest and systematic excavations from 1863 onwards, with peak activity between 1924 and 1968. Modern excavations continue to focus on six distinct fossiliferous horizons—Besano Formation, Meride Limestone (including Cava inferiore, Cava superiore, Cassina, Sceltrich, and Kalkschieferzone beds)—revealing a rich archive of Triassic life. This study chronicles the history of these excavations, detailing locations, methodologies, and recovered material, highlighting Monte San Giorgio's significance as a key site for understanding Triassic biodiversity.

Furrer, H. (2024). The history of palaeontological research and excavations at Monte San Giorgio. Swiss Journal of Palaeontology, 143(1). https://doi.org/10.1186/s13358-024-00314-9