Massive Dinosaur Footprints Discovery in Italy Stuns Scientists Ahead of 2026 Olympics

A major discovery of dinosaur footprints has been confirmed in northern Italy. The find sits high in Stelvio National Park near Bormio. Officials say the site holds one of the largest collections of dinosaur prints ever found. The main keyword dinosaur footprints appears early because it drives strong global search interest.

Lombardy Region president Attilio Fontana attends a press conference in Milan, Italy, Tuesday, Dec. 16, 2025, on a discovery of thousands of dinosaur tracks in Lombardy region. (AP Photo/Luca Bruno)

The find dates back about 210 million years. Experts say the prints stretch for nearly three miles and may number up to 20,000. According to the Associated Press, this is one of the most important fossil track discoveries in Europe.

Italy’s Dinosaur Footprints Site Reveals Rare Triassic Evidence

Scientists say the dinosaur footprints were made by large herbivores. These animals walked on two legs and had long necks. They may have been similar to Plateosaurus and reached about 33 feet in length.

The prints measure up to 40 centimeters. Claw marks are still visible in many spots. Experts say the detail and number of tracks make this site unique.

The site sits near the Swiss border. This land was once a coastal area in the Triassic Period. No previous dinosaur tracks had ever been found in this region.

Reuters and AP report that the tracks show slow and calm movement. Scientists believe the animals traveled in groups. Some prints form circles, which may show protective behavior.

The footprints were found by wildlife photographer Elio Della Ferrera. He was trying to photograph deer and vultures. He noticed odd shapes on a steep rock wall and climbed to inspect them.

What the Dinosaur Footprints Discovery Means for Science and Tourism

Experts say this discovery will change what we know about Triassic life in Europe. The high altitude of the site also surprised researchers. The tracks sit up to 9,200 feet above sea level.

The area is hard to reach and stays in shade most of the day. That may have helped preserve the tracks for millions of years. The site is only one mile from Bormio, a 2026 Winter Olympic venue.

Local officials say the find is a “gift for the Olympics.” But they warn the site may not open to visitors soon. Winter access is nearly impossible, and safety plans must be made first.

This rare discovery of dinosaur footprints is now seen as one of the most important fossil finds in Italy. It may bring new scientific interest to the region. The dinosaur footprints are expected to draw global attention as studies continue.

Dropping this nugget your way-

Q1: Where were the dinosaur footprints found?

They were found in Stelvio National Park in northern Italy. The site is near Bormio, close to the Swiss border. It sits at high altitude on a steep rock wall.

Q2: How old are the dinosaur footprints?

Experts say the prints are about 210 million years old. They date back to the Late Triassic Period. This makes them some of the oldest known tracks in the region.

Q3: How many dinosaur footprints were discovered?

Scientists estimate there may be up to 20,000 prints. They stretch across about three miles. Many are well preserved with visible claw marks.

Q4: What type of dinosaurs made the footprints?

The prints were likely made by large herbivores similar to Plateosaurus. These dinosaurs walked on two legs. They could reach about 33 feet in length.

Q5: Will the public be able to visit the site?

Officials say access is difficult due to altitude and terrain. Winter access is nearly impossible. Plans for public visits have not been decided.