20 years of National Geopark Ries

For 20 years, the Ries National Geopark has stood for a unique combination of geological history, nature, culture, and regional identity. With its Ries crater, created by a meteorite impact, the Ries Geopark preserves a geological heritage of international significance—and makes it accessible to locals and visitors alike.

The "National Geopark" designation stands for clearly defined quality criteria, binding goals, and a professional management structure. The term "geopark" itself is not protected – which made the certification as a National Geopark all the more significant.

The anniversary year invites us to look back on two decades of protecting geological heritage, sustainable regional development, and lively cooperation with local authorities, partners, and volunteers. 

A series of fascinating and free lectures, as well as a car tour, will focus on current research, geological features, and questions related to the topics covered by the UNESCO Global Geopark Ries.

Show us your favorite spot in the Ries Geopark and share a photo or short video of your personal favorite spot in the UNESCO Global Geopark Ries on Instagram or Facebook by September 30, 2026. It’s worth participating—there are great prizes to be won!

To mark its 20th anniversary, the UNESCO Global Geopark Ries is publishing a series of in-depth expert articles and interviews with selected collaborators and specialists on the key topics of the Ries Geopark. The articles, which are intended to inform and inspire the interested public and keep them up to date on the latest.

The project “Traditional Costumes in the Ries—Everything We Wear” is a joint initiative of Geopark Ries e. V. and the Geopark Ries schools for the 2025–26 school year. As part of the project, students in the Geopark Ries schools’ cooperation network will have the opportunity to explore traditional costumes from the Ries region and the history of fashion in the region and beyond.

Starting October 2nd at the Märker visitor center in Harburg (Swabia)
More exhibitions will follow.