Au cœur de l'Ardoise, Underground slate mine museum in Bertrix, Belgium
Au coeur de l'Ardoise is an underground slate extraction site turned museum, situated approximately 25 meters below ground level. The location features about one kilometer of interconnected tunnels displaying historical mining equipment and extraction machinery from industrial operations.
Industrial slate extraction at this location began in 1889 and continued until 1976, when mining operations ceased. The site was converted into a museum in 1996 to preserve the regional mining heritage for future generations.
The term 'scailton' refers to the slate miners who lived and worked in this region for generations. Their craft and daily routines shaped the identity of the Bertrix community for over a century.
Visitors can enter without reservation on weekends, though the final entrance time occurs in the late afternoon. Larger groups should arrange visits in advance to ensure smooth access and proper coordination.
The venue offers underground gourmet experiences where visitors enjoy local cuisine and drinks while exploring tunnels and former mining chambers. These culinary events blend the industrial heritage with gastronomy in an unconventional way.
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