Černá Rokle Landscape of Geological Memory: Concept of Access and Protection of a Paleontologically Valuable Area

Černé rokle represent an exceptionally valuable area on the southwestern edge of Prague, between Radotín and the village of Kosoř, where the geological history of the landscape can be directly read in the terrain itself. The site preserves significant geological profiles, paleontological findings, and valuable steppe and forest-steppe habitats, making it an area of outstanding natural, scientific, and landscape value. At the same time, the site has strong educational and interpretive potential. Due to its accessibility and unique character, the area has long been visited by experts, school groups, and the general public. However, the lack of clear spatial organization has led to issues such as uncontrolled visitor movement, the creation of informal paths, illegal fossil collecting, overgrowth of exposed geological outcrops, and littering in certain parts of the site. During the development of my diploma thesis, I explored ways to make this sensitive area accessible without compromising its protection. The proposal therefore works with a hierarchy of routes, ecologically quiet zones, controlled entry points, visitor facilities, and interpretive elements that help guide visitors through the area in a sensitive and respectful way. The aim was not to create a conventional educational trail, but rather to propose an approach that integrates nature conservation, education, and managed visitor access - an approach that could also serve as inspiration for other similarly valuable protected landscapes.