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In the field of geology, he formulated several pioneering theories relating to the study of ''strata'', i.e. layers in soil or rock, and described how such layers would form chronologically through sedimentation. He also studyed [[fossil]]s, in particular suggesting a theory that could describe the process of [[fossilization]] through chemical changes.  

In the field of geology, he formulated several pioneering theories relating to the study of ''strata'', i.e. layers in soil or rock, and described how such layers would form chronologically through sedimentation. He also studyed [[fossil]]s, in particular suggesting a theory that could describe the process of [[fossilization]] through chemical changes.  

However, in the late 1660's, while studying in Florence, Niels Steensen converted from [[Protestantism]] to [[Catholicism]]. While he continued to study and teach scientific subjects for some years, by the mid-1670's he had dedicated himself to fully to theology, becoming an important figure in the [[Counter-Reformation]]. He was made [[Bishop]] of [[Schwerin]] in 1676, working to promote Catholicism in the predominantly Protestant Northern [[Germany]] until his death ten years later.

However, in the late 1660's, while studying in Florence, Niels Steensen converted from [[Protestantism]] to [[Catholicism]]. While he continued to study and teach scientific subjects for some years, by the mid-1670's he had dedicated himself to fully to theology, becoming an important figure in the [[Counter-Reformation]]. He was made [[Bishop]] of [[Schwerin]] in 1676, working to promote Catholicism in the predominantly Protestant Northern [[Germany]] until his death ten years later.

Niels Steensen was originally buried in the Basilica di San Lorenzo in [[Florence]], but his body was exhumed in 1953 and reburied in the "Capella Stenoniana" in the same basilica. He was beatified by the [[Catholic Church]] in 1987. As of 2008, his case for [[canonization]] is still being considered by the [[Holy See]].

Niels Steensen was originally buried in the Basilica di San Lorenzo in [[Florence]], but his body was exhumed in 1953 and reburied in the "Capella Stenoniana" in the same basilica. He was beatified by the [[Catholic Church]] in 1987. As of 2008, his case for [[canonization]] is still being considered by the [[Holy See]].

"Niels Steensens Gymnaisum", the only Catholic high school in [[Scandinavia]], is named after him. The school is located in [[Copenhagen]], Denmark, and has close ties to the [[Society of Jesus|Jesuit Order]].

"Niels Steensens Gymnaisum", the only Catholic high school in [[Scandinavia]], is named after him. The school is located in [[Copenhagen]], Denmark, and has close ties to the [[Society of Jesus|Jesuit Order]].