Finstergrund Visitor Mine

Finstergrund opened as a visitor mine in 1982. Lead and silver mining around Wieden in the Black Forest began in the 13th century and continued, with some breaks, until the early 19th century. In the early 20th century, mining started again, this time for fluorite, mainly for use in the steel industry. Mining for fluorite at Finstergrund reached a peak in 1967 but ended in 1974 due to international competition. Former miners created an association to preserve the mine. Visitors enter riding a working railway with an electric locomotive and go 2km underground. Guides explain the history and techniques of mining during the tour. Visitors see the mineral veins, up to 2m deep, methods of drilling and blasting and the transport of the ore out of the mine. Many different minerals can be seen in the walls of the working chambers. Nearby above ground is the impressive office of the mining company.