Koboltgruvene, Cobalt mines nature site in Modum Municipality, Norway
Koboltgruvene is a mining site spread across a ridge in Modum Municipality with underground tunnels, suspension bridges, and various surface buildings. The network spans several kilometers and displays the complete infrastructure of a historic mining operation.
Mining started in 1772 with the discovery of cobalt ore and quickly grew into Norway's largest operation. By the mid-1800s, this location was the primary source for Norwegian cobalt exports across Europe.
The site takes its name from the cobalt ore that was mined here for centuries. Visitors can see restored buildings that show how miners worked and what tools they used in their daily labor.
The Gruvekroa visitor center serves as the starting point for all visits and provides information on site. Tours run from May through September, with extra openings during autumn holidays and the weeks before Christmas.
The site features a glass floor and an underground suspension bridge that let visitors step into the original mining tunnels. These special installations create an immersive feeling of standing far below the surface in an actual workplace from the 1700s.
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