GRAB'MAL (0.75h)
GRAB’MAL – an excavation for everyone
At GRAB’MAL, visitors can uncover fossils from Eocene oil shale under expert guidance. The activity is particularly aimed at children and young people aged 6 and above, but is also open to adults. From 28 March to 18 October 2026, visitors can dig at specific times on Thursdays, Saturdays and Sundays (and on Tuesdays as well during school holidays).
During the approximately 45-minute excavation, participants learn about oil shale, practice splitting techniques, and search for fossils in the spoil from the research excavations, which are then identified under a microscope. Even small finds contribute to expanding knowledge about the diversity of fossils in Messel.
Legal guardians are responsible for supervising children at all times.
Note: this programme is held in German. The excavation tutor may be able to give individual explanation in English.
Route
The GRAB’MAL is located approx. 100 m from the museum.
Prices
Adults: €5
Concessions*: €3.50
Children under 6: free (must be accompanied by an adult)
Maximum number of participants: 10 people
* Children aged 6 to 17, students, apprentices, participants in the BFD/FSJ/FÖJ schemes, and people with severe disabilities, provided they hold a Museum Pass issued by the German Museum Association (Deutscher Museumsbund e.V.)
Tickets & inquiries
Tickets can also be booked on site, subject to availability. However, we recommend registering in advance by phone at +49 (0) 6159 71759-0 or booking online.
Welterbe Grube Messel GGmbH
Rossdörfer Str. 108
64409 Messel
Mail: service@grube-messel.de
Phone: +49 (0) 6159 71759 – 0