Field Trip Leaders: Michele Secco1, Claudio Mazzoli2, with the collaboration of the Gruppo Mineralogico Paleontologico Euganeo (GMPE)
1Università di Padova, Dipartimento dei Beni Culturali;
2Università di Padova, Dipartimento di Geoscienze.
Date: 18 September 2026
Cost: entrance to the Cava Bomba Museum and wine tasting experience 30 € (SIMP/SGI members) - 50 € (non-members and Societies associated with SGI)
Minimum number of participants: 15
Maximum number of participants: 25
Description
Organized in collaboration with the Gruppo Mineralogico Paleontologico Euganeo (GMPE), this one-day excursion is dedicated to the geological diversity and industrial heritage of the Euganean Hills. Participants will explore the transition from sedimentary to volcanic activity that shaped this unique landscape.
The day begins at the Museo di Cava Bomba, a significant site of industrial archaeology housing restored 19th-century lime kilns. Here, participants will be introduced to the geological history of the Euganean Hills through the museum's collections, which include Upper Cretaceous fossils and the renowned "Da Rio" geological collection.
The field trip continues with a hike up Monte Cinto. The route offers a complete geological cross-section: starting from the limestone quarry at the base (witnessing the sedimentary phase), hikers will ascend to the impressive rhyolite quarry near the summit. A key highlight is the "Buso dei Briganti" geosite, a natural rock window offering a unique perspective on the local geomorphology and legends. The day concludes with a commute to the nearby Ca' Lustra winery for a wine tasting session, accompanied by finger food, featuring local organic wines, connecting the region's volcanic soil to its viticultural excellence. Non-alcoholic alternatives in the form of organic grape juices will be provided for teetotal participants.
Return to Padova is expected by 4 PM.
Programme
Participants will be accompanied to the site by the field trip organizers, departing at 8:30 AM from the Department of Geosciences.
Further information
Layered clothing is recommended to accommodate potentially rapid weather changes, along with a windproof jacket, hat, sunglasses, and sun protection. Rubber boots are mandatory, as some areas may remain submerged by several centimeters of water throughout the day. Bringing personal boots is advised when possible, though a limited number of spare pairs will be available on-site.
Cost is all-inclusive.
Field trip contact: michele.secco@unipd.it