Miniera del Rugèt
Museum | Gravere | Piemonte | Italy
The Miniera del Rugèt in Gravere, Piedmont, is a historical silver mine that was intensively operated during the Middle Ages. The first documented activities date back to the 13th century, with a resurgence in the 18th century and a final phase in 1825.
Geology and Mining
The mine is located in the dolomite marbles of the Cantalupo unit and was mainly operated for the extraction of galena, a lead sulfide that contains small amounts of silver. Miners worked manually to extract the mineral from the rock, with the tunnels often being only about a meter high, requiring them to work in a stooped position.
Archaeological Finds
Archaeological investigations have unearthed interesting finds, including a steel key from the 13th or 14th century and glass fragments, indicating use of the mine even before the oldest surviving historical documents. These discoveries suggest that mining in the region may have started before the 13th century, in connection with the spread of silver coins that boosted the European economy since the time of Charlemagne.
Visitor Information
The Miniera del Rugèt is accessible to visitors and offers guided tours that provide insight into the history of mining and the geological features of the region. The tour lasts about 30 minutes and requires wearing a protective helmet and headlamp, which are provided on site. Access is via Strada Provinciale 254 del Pian del Frais, about 3.6 kilometers after the village of Arnodera at an altitude of 862 meters above sea level.
The Miniera del Rugèt thus represents a significant testimony of medieval mining in Piedmont, offering visitors the opportunity to delve into the history and geology of the region.
