Summer 2024 will be marked by an exceptional exhibition in Étampes. From July 6 to October 20, the Hôtel Anne-de-Pisseleu opens its doors to welcome “ 30 million years, a journey into the past “. Organized by the Department of Essonne and the National Nature Reserve of Geological Sites of Essonne, in partnership with the Agglomeration of Étampois Sud-Essonne, this exhibition promises a fascinating journey through time.
The warm sea of the Stampian: 34 million years ago
34 million years ago, the south of the Paris Basin was covered by a warm, shallow sea. Over millions of years, sediments accumulated, capturing and preserving a rich marine fauna. These fossils, now protected by the National Nature Reserve of Geological Sites of Essonne, will be at the heart of the exhibition, allowing us to reconstruct the vanished landscapes of this era.
Étampes, cradle of European geology
The south of Essonne is recognized as one of the cradles of geology in Europe. Since the 19th century, this region has fascinated researchers, paleontologists and geologists thanks to the presence of numerous fossils. The fossil deposits of the region, dating from -33.9 to -27.8 million years, bear witness to the last marine transgression of the Paris Basin, known as the Stampian. The name of this period is directly linked to Étampes (Stampae in Latin), where these sediments were discovered and defined by Alcide d’Orbigny in 1852.
Jean Etienne Guettard: an emblematic figure of geology
Étampes is also the birthplace of Jean Etienne Guettard (1715-1786), pioneer of geology and author of the first mineralogical map of France in 1746. His work paved the way for the study of fossils and geology in the region.
The National Nature Reserve of the geological sites of Essonne
Created in 1989, the National Nature Reserve of the geological sites of Essonne today protects 13 geological sites, 10 of which are developed for the public. Eight of these sites are located in the territory of the Agglomeration of Étampois Sud-Essonne. Since 2012, the Essonne Departmental Council has managed it, aiming to promote this unique geological heritage.
An interactive and immersive exhibition
« 30 million years, a trip into the past » offers an immersive experience thanks to numerous visual, tactile and fun devices. Visitors will be able to explore the marine and terrestrial fauna of the Stampien, and discover the secrets of geology through captivating animations.
Useful information
- Dates : From July 6 to October 20, 2024
- Lieu : Anne-de-Pisseleu Hotel, Etampes
- Schedules : Open every day from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
- Prices : Free admission
Dates to note
- Saturday, July 6, from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m.presentation of the exhibition by the Reserve mediators
National geological sites of Essonne - 3 Young Audience Workshops at the Hôtel Anne-de-Pisseleu – Free – from 8 years old. Information and
Registrations at 01.75.59.70.55. or at the email address [email protected] - Tuesday, July 9 at 2 p.m. – Apprentice Paleontologist Workshop: Children are invited to go back in time and observe the life forms that populated our region millions of years ago.
- Thursday, July 25 at 10 a.m. – Climate Change Workshop: During this activity, you will discover the climate of Essonne 30 million years ago. Compare it to the current one and observe the
- mechanisms that contribute to variations in ocean levels.
- Thursday 1is August at 2pm – Stampian Timeline and Geology: Explore the defining moments in our planet’s history, from titanic volcanic eruptions to the rise of continents, including the age of the dinosaurs. Come play and piece together the Stampian timeline.
- Saturday October 12 at the Intercommunal Theater, Conference Day “When Essonne was under
the sea” in the presence of numerous specialists and academics. Program to come. By reservation
with Rendez-vous Nature – Essonne Departmental Council.
