Historic Silver Mine

The Historic Silver Mine in Tarnowskie Góry is a unique architectural and cultural site, inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List on July 9, 2017. It was once part of the Royal Frederick Mine, which operated from 1784 to 1911, and its underground network consists of a labyrinth of mining excavations, tunnels, and adits stretching over 150 km. Located at Szczęść Boże Street in Tarnowskie Góry, the mine offers visitors a 1,740-meter-long route at a depth of 40 meters, showcasing evidence of historical silver mining methods, including some 18th and 19th-century mining faces and tools. Notably, the underground area maintains a specific microclimate with a constant temperature of around 10°C. An interesting feature is that part of the route (approximately 300 meters) is traversed by boat, and in 2012, the path was enhanced with authentic sounds of mining work. The headframe building houses a multimedia exhibition that presents the history and mining techniques, including the first steam engine in Upper Silesia from 1788. Designated as a historic monument of Tarnowskie Góry since 2004, the site is also one of the four points on the Silesian Voivodeship Industrial Heritage Trail and highlights elements related to the region's industrialization. On the mine’s grounds, there is a steam machinery open-air museum, comprehensively showcasing historical technologies. Additionally, visitors can enjoy the Small Heritage Railway, which offers rides around the museum area, making it an attractive activity for the whole family. The Historic Silver Mine is managed by the Association of Lovers of the Tarnogórska Land, which ensures its conservation and promotion. The facility is also adapted for people with disabilities, making it accessible to all guests.