NEW since autumn 2026!
With “Lacerta Prima”, a special LandArt project is taking shape in Olang, bringing together art, nature and the history of the Earth. The artist Marco Martalar has created a monumental wooden sculpture depicting Megachirella wachtleri, a prehistoric reptile whose fossil was discovered on the "Kühwiesenkopf" in Olang, in the heart of the Dolomites UNESCO World Heritage. Martalar is known for his large-scale works made from wood, roots and fragments of fallen or broken trees. “Lacerta Prima” is also made from natural wood and damaged timber, allowing it to blend into the landscape in a very special way. Materials that seem to have been lost are given a new form and meaning.
The sculpture makes a fascinating chapter of Earth’s history visible and combines environmental awareness, contemporary art and a strong regional connection. A replica of the fossil can also be viewed at the tourist office in Mitterolang. From there, the walking trail “On the traces of Lacerta Prima” leads towards Oberolang and continues on to the sculpture.
Discover the walking trail: https://www.olang.com/en/activity/in-the-footsteps-of-lacerta-prima_218723
More information about the Megachirella wachtleri: https://www.olang.com/en/info/megachirella-wachtleri_185810
The sculpture is located in a sensitive grazing area and cannot be reached directly by car. Please use the parking spaces along Aue Street or the Lacerta Prima car park. From there, the walking trail “In the Footsteps of Lacerta Prima” leads directly to the sculpture.
