Idrija Historic Mine & Lace Tour by Slovenia Historic Towns
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
4 hours
Fitness Level
Moderate mobility required for walking and descending mine stairs; suitable for most adults and older children.
Overview
Descend into Idrija’s centuries-old mercury mine and uncover the secrets behind its UNESCO-listed lace tradition. This engaging tour by Slovenia Historic Towns ties intricate history with captivating geology.
Idrija: From ore to lace
For all ages • 4h • Visit the world’s second-largest mercury mine!
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About This Adventure
Explore the depths of the world’s second-largest mercury mine, descending 96 meters into ancient tunnels. Discover the smelting process, admire unique Idrian lace in a historic castle, and engage with interactive exhibits. Experience the stunning natural beauty and UNESCO heritage of Idrija, a treasure trove of global significance.
Visit the world’s second-largest mercury mine!
Duration
4 hours
About the tour
Descend 96 metres deep into the more than 500-year-old tunnels of the world’s second-largest mercury mine. Take a look at the smelting plant where they acquired the brilliant liquid metal from the ore and find out why authentic Idrian lace is so special during a tour of the museum collections in an unusual castle! Experience the geological peculiarities of the area in an interactive way (with attractive points for children) and then go and explore the beautiful nature. Along with the UNESCO heritage of mercury, the UNESCO heritage of bobbin lace, and a UNESCO global geopark, Idrija is the largest Slovenian treasury of peculiarities of global importance.
You can choose the language of your tour from these four options:
- English
- German
- Italian
- French
The experience includes:
- A tour of Anthony’s Shaft with a presentation of mining methods from the 16th century to today
- A tour of the Hg smelting plant with a demonstration of the melting process from ore to mercury drops
- A tour of the museum collections at the Gewerkenegg mining castle and a presentation of the Idrija bobbin lace heritage
- An interactive exhibition at the Visitors’ Centre of the Idrija UNESCO Global Geopark
Adventure Tips
Wear sturdy shoes
The mine tunnels are uneven and damp, so solid footwear is crucial for comfort and safety.
Bring a light jacket
Temperatures underground stay cool year-round, even on warm days above ground.
Book tours in advance
Small group sizes mean slots fill quickly, especially during peak travel seasons.
Use provided translations
Tours are available in multiple languages; choosing one enhances the informative experience.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- European roe deer
- Eurasian blackcap (bird species)
History
Mining began in Idrija in the 16th century, making it one of Europe’s oldest mercury extraction sites, integral to local culture and economy.
Conservation
The site balances tourism with preservation efforts focused on maintaining geological features and traditional crafts associated with the UNESCO-designated heritage.
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Adventure Hotspots in Ljubljana
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Sturdy hiking shoes
Provides traction and stability on uneven mine floors and during outdoor strolls.
Light waterproof jacket
Protects against occasional rain and keeps you warm in cool mine tunnels.
spring|fall|summer specific
Layered clothing
Adjust layers to stay comfortable from cool underground to warmer surface temperatures.
all specific
Camera
Capture the intricate lace patterns and impressive mine architecture.