The museum "Fossilia" in Mölten presents the most beautiful fossil finds from the surroundings of Mölten and makes the fascinating geological history of this region come alive.

Along with the Bletterbach and the Seceda, Mölten is one of the only three sites in South Tyrol where plant fossils from the upper (late) Permian period have been discovered.

Particularly unique: fossilized tree trunks have been recovered in Mölten. Details such as growth form, branches, roots and proportions have thus been preserved and invite you to marvel.

A guided tour with our experienced experts is highly recommended.

The newly designed exhibition is barrier-free and offers exciting insights - both during the guided tours and the interactive experiences in our laboratory.

Our guided tours and laboratory experiences are aimed at all age groups, from curious children from the age of three to interested adults.

They are offered in German, Italian and English and promise fascinating discoveries in the world of fossils.

Dear visitors,

The Mölten Fossil Museum is much more than just a place of exhibition – it is a living testimony to our unique geological past.

The finds presented here, many of which come directly from our area, tell of a time when South Tyrol was still covered by the sea.

For our community, the museum is an important cultural center that not only imparts knowledge, but also strengthens people’s ties to their homeland. It is a place of wonder, encounter and education – for locals and visitors alike. We are proud to be able to share this special heritage with you and invite you to rediscover Mölten and its history.

Sincerely

Walter Gruber
Mayor of the municipality of Mölten

The fossil museum Fossilia has a very special history.

In the 1980s, damaged original stones had to be replaced on the parish tower of Bolzano Cathedral. After many years and weather-related wear and tear, a comprehensive renovation was necessary. To this end, the historic quarry in Mölten was reopened to extract Möltner sandstone.

On the initiative of Franz Josef Karnutsch, the first fossil show was set up in Mölten, which was open to visitors for around 20 years.

Construction of the new museum finally began at the end of 2020 and it will open in 2023 as the modern Fossilia fossil museum opened its doors – a place where the history of the earth comes alive.

Our experts Alessandra, Daniela, Noah and Franz will accompany you on an exciting journey through millions of years of Earth’s history.

They bring the fascinating world of fossils to life with enthusiasm, specialist knowledge and a large portion of passion – comprehensible, entertaining and always with an eye for the small details that tell great stories.

Whether curious children, inquisitive school classes or interested adults – our guided tours are tailored to all ages and make every visit to Fossilia an unforgettable experience.

Let our enthusiasm inspire you and immerse yourself with us in the fascinating world of prehistoric times!

High school diploma as a textile specialist
import-export technician.

In recent years: Courses and in-depth studies on geology and paleontology.

Courses by geologists and paleontologists from the South Tyrol Museum of Nature in Bolzano, who also provided or recommended the teaching material.

Hobbies

Traveling, visiting monuments and museums (especially in the field of geology, paleontology and archeology), reading, organizing events and trips, hiking and biking in nature, crafting with natural materials.

Interest in the museum

I have always loved geology and paleontology. Years ago, during the realization of the “Fossilia” museum, I took care of the translations from German into Italian.

For this reason, I felt even more drawn to this topic and the fascinating history of the museum.

Since then, I have always devoted myself to the “Fossilia” museum.

Apprenticeship as a retail saleswoman in Sillian (A)
Vocational school-leaving examination at BFI Lienz (A)

Studied Archaeology at the Leopold-Franzens-University Innsbruck with a Bachelor’s degree (BA)

In recent years: Courses and in-depth studies on geology and paleontology

Courses by geologists and paleontologists from the South Tyrol Museum of Nature in Bolzano, who have also provided and recommended teaching materials

Independent acquisition of knowledge in the fields of geology and paleontology

Hobbies

Traveling, sightseeing, visiting museums (especially in the fields of geology, archaeology, paleontology and earth sciences such as mineralogy and astronomy),

Reading, dancing, botany, handicrafts

Interest in the museum

I have loved archaeology and the scientific field of history since I was a child. Since the (re)opening of our museum in April 2023, I have also been very enthusiastic about geology and palaeontology.

For this reason, I felt even more drawn to this topic and the fascinating history of the museum.

Since then, I have dedicated myself to the “Fossilia” museum.

Matura as a graphic designer

In recent years: Courses and. In-depth studies on geology and Paleontology.

Courses by geologists and paleontologists from the South Tyrol Museum of Nature in Bolzano, who also provided or recommended the teaching material.

Hobbies

Travel, visiting museums (especially in the fields of history, art, architecture, and archaeology).

Reading, painting, sculpture, and graphics interest for the museum.

Interest in the museum

Since the reopening of the museum, I am all the more interested in these topics and enthusiastic.

For this reason, I felt even more drawn to this topic and the fascinating history of the museum.

Since then, I have always devoted myself to the “Fossilia” museum.

Training as a master civil engineer with a degree
Further training courses in civil engineering

In recent years: Courses and in-depth studies on geology and paleontology.

Courses by geologists and paleontologists from the South Tyrol Museum of Nature in Bolzano, who also provided or recommended the teaching material.

Hobbies

Cycling (e-bike), skiing and handicrafts (DIY).

Interest in the museum

I became interested in geology as a result of my training and further training courses in civil engineering.

Since the opening of our “Fossilia” museum, I have become even more enthusiastic about geology and also very interested in palaeontology.

For this reason, I felt even more drawn to these topics and the fascinating history of the museum.

Since then, I have always devoted myself to the “Fossilia” museum.