Falu Mine, Falun was the largest copper mine in the world during the 17th and 18th century. Apart from being a major copper mine in Sweden, Falu Mine was also the largest gold and silver mine in the country. It was only in the later years of mining that the deposits of this mine were rivaled by that of Sala Silvergruva. A famous quote about Falu Mine, Falun was given by the great Swedish botanist Linnaeus, who after visiting the mine described it as:
"The greatest marvel in Sweden but as terrible as hell itself"
History of Falu Mine, Falun
Pollen analysis and study of the radioactive carbon found on the walls of this mine indicate that extraction of metal ores from this mine probably began a decade or so before 1100. Historical records, such as a barter transaction issued by Bishop Peter of Vasteras the year and documents attested by the King and the bishops of Sweden in 1288 show that by the 13th century, mining operations at Falu Gruva had attained considerable proportions. These documents also point to the fact that this mine was of great importance to the economy of the country at that time.
Parts of Falu Mine, Falun
The Falu Gruva or Falu mine has an open-cast part that is called the "Great Pit" and is 95 meters deep, 400 meters long and 350 meters wide. While some mining is carried out in this open pit, the rest is carried on underground. The main shaft of this mine is 450 meters deep. The exploratory level of this mine lies at a depth of 150 meters below that main shaft.
At the surface of the rim of the "Great Pit" also known as the Stora Stöten there is a sort of open air museum. In this museum, you can see various mining buildings including wheel houses, head frames and pivots. This Mining Museum also houses a number of historic documents related to the mine and old pictures.
Keep browsing travel.mapsofworld.com for detailed online information on Falu Mine, Falun and other popular Tourist Attractions in Falun.
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