Following in Dinosaur Footsteps in Istria
Welcome to a unique blend of stunning nature and fascinating history, welcome to Istria, Croatian region known for its beautiful coast and rich culture. If you’re a fan of prehistoric giants, you’ll love exploring the various locations with dinosaur findings in Istria: Dinosaur Path in Premantura, dinosaur footprints in Brijuni National Park, Dino Park Funtana and dinosaur bones in MMC Ulika in Bale.
Discovering the footprints of giants
This incredible footprints found in Istria and left by dinosaurs millions of years ago were first found in 1925 on Veli Brijun (Iguanodon), and later on the islet of Fenoliga (Sauropoda) south of Pula and at the mouth of the Mirna River (Theropoda). Paleontologists have studied these tracks extensively, revealing a vivid picture of the creatures that once roamed this region. Following their footprints, you can see three-toed imprints, capturing the imagination and offering a direct link to a prehistoric world. Each footprint tells its own story, as you wander through these ancient marks, you can’t help but feel connected to the distant past of our planet.
Following the Dinosaur Path on Kamenjak
About 3.8 billion years ago, life first emerged on Earth, and since then, it has developed into many species that continue to amaze us. The fossil remains in the rocks act as a time machine, transporting us back to the Earth’s distant past and exposing long-lost regions and unusual inhabitants. One such intriguing story may be found in the limestones of cape Kamenjak, which was formerly governed by majestic creatures known as dinosaurs. Travel through past with us in this protected nature landscape in Istria!
Fun fact
British biologist, Richard Owen, coined the word Dinosaur (originally Dinosauria) in 1841 and it originates from two greek words deinos – powerful, terrible, wondrous and sauros – lizard. Before 1841 it is believed that people simply called them dragons!
This educational and recreational trail “Following the Dinosaur Path on Kamenjak” is located on the west side of the Kamenjak peninsula, near Premantura, a small Istrian town next to Pula, Croatia. Only 300 meters from the entrance of protected area of cape Kamenjak you’ll see the first dinosaur and from there follow the signs which will lead you to other live-size models of dinosaurs and other creatures from the Cretaceous period that lived here.
Fenoliga Island: Istrian Jurassic Park
Fenoliga is a small island located northwest of cape Kamenjak. The island is approximately 150 m long and is well known for the dinosaur tracks first discovered in 1974. The traces belong to the dinosaurs species of Theropod and Sauropod and are estimated to be more than 90 million years old. Just to put it into perspective, humans are around 300 000 years old. Sauropods had very long necks, long tails, small heads relative to the rest of their body, and four thick short legs. They are notable for the enormous sizes and the group includes the largest animals to have ever lived on land. On the other hand, some subgroups of theropods were covered in feathers, and in the Jurassic period, birds evolved from small specialised theropods, and are currently represented by about 11 000 living species, making theropods the only group of dinosaurs still alive today. The Island of Fenoliga can be reached by kayak or by boat. Because of the strong and dangerous sea currents it is not recommended to swim around the island, but we can reach it in kayaks!
A journey millions of years in the making
Each step along any of these paths is a step through time. Reflecting on the millions of years that these dinosaur footprints have been preserved, it’s an experience that captures the imagination of visitors, both young and old. As you explore the routes consider the many events that these rocks have silently witnessed throughout the ages. It’s a humbling reminder of our place within Earth’s vast timeline.
Istria offers a magical blend of education, natural beauty, and a direct connection to an ancient time. Whether you’re a history lover, a nature enthusiast, or just seeking a unique getaway, Istria’s prehistoric trails offer an unforgettable adventure. So come, step where dinosaurs once did, and create memories that will last for years to come.
Check out other blog posts for more ideas on what to visit in Pula and Istria.
If you’d like to create lasting memories, see dinosaurs and visit Cape Kamenjak or island Fenoliga by kayak, bike or on foot, contact us here.