Description
176,000 years ago, an asteroid entered the atmosphere above Switzerland, fragmented, and caused a meteor shower at the foot of the Chasseral. This extraordinary event went unnoticed until 1984, when the first piece weighing over 15 kilograms was discovered. Currently, more than 2000 fragments have been found and analyzed. It is a very rare type of meteorite, whose diameter, weight, speed, and impact angle have been reconstructed. This hike takes you above Lake Biel, through the dispersal field of the Twannberg meteorite. It is the largest meteorite ever found in our country. You will discover its fabulous history, from its birth at the edge of the solar system 4.56 billion years ago to the recent discoveries of its latest fragments. And who knows, maybe with a bit of luck, we will find a piece! This excursion on the history of the Twannberg meteorite is intended for the general public and requires no special knowledge, everyone is welcome! This guided tour is offered by Thierry Basset, geologist-volcanologist. Practical information: Meeting at Douanne train station (Twann) on the shores of Lake Biel; end of the outing at Bienne train station around 5:30 pm (matching public transport schedules). Price: CHF 80.- Free for children under 12 years old. In French.
Highlights
- Discovery of the largest meteorite in Switzerland
- Guided excursion by Thierry Basset, geologist-volcanologist
- Meeting at Douanne train station, ending at Bienne train station
General Information
This hike immerses you in the fascinating history of the Twannberg meteorite, which fell 176,000 years ago. Accessible to all, this outing will allow you to explore the dispersal field and learn more about recent discoveries.
Location
Twann, 2513 Twann, Switzerland
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Event Calendar
October 2026
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