EXPERIENCES
THE MINING HERITAGE
Explore the underground world of the Idrija miners.
Idrija, the oldest Slovenian mining town, is famous for its mercury mine, which is the second largest in the world. This 500-year-old mine is included in the UNESCO World Heritage List, together with the Spanish Almaden mine. While unveiling the rich mining heritage, you will learn about the town’s history and the life of the families of the former miners.
According to a legend the native mercury in Idrija was found by a bucket maker under a jet of spring water. At the place where mercury was discovered the Holy Trinity Church stands today.
Idrijska kamšt, a device for pumping water from the mine pit, featuring the biggest wooden wheel in Europe.
Discover the heritage of the Idrija mine
ANTONIJEV ROV TOURIST MINE
Enter through the oldest preserved mine entrance from 1500 and take a walk through the underground tunnels. Imagine the hardships of hundreds of miners who over many centuries, deep beneath the surface, toiled to win bread for their families.
IDRIJA MUNICIPAL MUSEUM
The Idrija Muncipal Museum, located in the Gewerkenegg castle, dating back to the 16th century, is engaged in researching, preserving and presenting the technical and cultural heritage of the mercury mine and Idrija.
MERCURY FOUNDRY
Visit the most recent museum in Idrija which was opened in 2017. Take a look at the exhibition From Ore to Mercury Drops to learn about mercury, a unique liquid metal, and its production process.