Hojapil Sanctuary | |
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Location | Lebap Province, Turkmenistan |
Area | 17,532 ha |
Established | 1986 |
Hojapil Sanctuary is a sanctuary (zakaznik) of Turkmenistan and a part of Köýtendag Nature Reserve.[1] It was established in 1986.[2]
An inclined limestone slab—spanning about 0.5 km in length and 0.2 km in width—preserving hundreds of dinosaur footprints, is a popular tourist attraction.[1] The site was discovered by Soviet geologist in the 80s; Turkmen scientists propose the evidence to be suggestive of three new dinosaur species: Gissarosaurus, Hojapilosaurus, and Turkmenosaurus.[1] In local tradition, the footprints were cast by elephants belonging either to the forces of Alexander the Great or some returning pilgrim from India.[1]
A sacred site in Turkmen tradition, the floor of the cave has a tomb.[1] Local legends explain the cave to have been created in an act of God, when 40 women — fearing capture by rogues — prayed for protection.[1]
A waterfall with a height of 27 meters is popular among tourists.[1]