Miniera di Cludinico
Museum | Ovaro | Friuli-Venezia Giulia | Italy
The Miniera di Cludinico in Ovaro, in the heart of the Friuli-Venezia Giulia region, is a fascinating testimony to the mining history of the 20th century. Coal mining in this area began in the late 18th century and reached its peak in the mid-20th century. The mines extended over an impressive network of 120 to 150 kilometers of underground tunnels that ran through the village of Cludinico, making it a bustling mining center.
History and Significance
The coal deposits of Cludinico attracted workers from all over Italy, transforming the village into a typical "company town." Alongside residential buildings for the workers such as dormitories and canteens, workshops, carpentry shops, and a cable car for coal transport were established. This infrastructure shaped the social and economic life of the region for decades.
The Museum
The museum of the former coal mine of Cludinico is located in the former warehouse of the mining village and houses an extensive collection of artifacts donated by former miners and their families. The exhibitions provide a deep insight into the mining process, from coal storage to extraction, showcasing tools, photographs, and documents documenting the lives and work of the miners.
The Underground Tour
A highlight of the visit is the guided tour through the underground tunnels of the former "Creta d'Oro" mine. With a length of about one kilometer, visitors can explore the tunnels once used by the miners. Equipped with a helmet and flashlight, an experienced guide leads visitors through the maze of tunnels, explaining the various phases of the extraction process and showcasing impressive mineral formations that have formed over decades.
Significance for the Region
The Miniera di Cludinico is not only a significant historical heritage but also a cultural center that keeps the lives and work of the miners of Ovaro alive. By preserving and presenting this heritage, the museum helps raise awareness of the region's industrial past and promote understanding of the challenges and daily lives of the miners.
Overall, the Miniera di Cludinico offers a unique opportunity to delve into the history of coal mining and appreciate the impressive engineering and unwavering spirit of the miners.
