Antonijev rov, Mine shaft entrance in Idrija, Slovenia.
Antonijev rov is the entrance to a mine shaft with underground galleries extending through multiple levels where mercury was extracted over centuries. The passages preserve old mining infrastructure and geological features that demonstrate the scale of former operations.
Mercury was discovered in Idrija in the late 15th century, leading to the establishment of this mine which operated continuously for over 500 years. Operations continued through technological improvements and changing ownership across the centuries.
The passages display mining equipment and life-sized figures representing workers from different eras, showing how people labored in difficult conditions throughout the centuries. Visitors see how the space was shaped by those who depended on it for their livelihood.
Guided tours through the shaft provide information about mercury extraction methods while maintaining safety standards for visitors. Wearing good footwear is important as the underground passages are uneven and damp.
The mine was part of the world's second-largest mercury operation and supplied roughly 13 percent of global mercury during its active years. This extraordinary output made the region a major trade center.
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