La Presta, Cave entrance at Travers, Switzerland
La Presta is a cave system near Travers in limestone formations with natural passages that connect through an extensive network of asphalt mines. The system links several underground areas that were dug and expanded over many decades.
The site became known in 1711 when a doctor discovered natural asphalt deposits, leading to mining operations beginning in 1712. Extraction of these underground resources shaped the region for centuries afterward.
The underground passages show old mining equipment and techniques that shaped the local economy for generations. Visitors can see how people worked in this space over centuries.
Tours last about 90 minutes and take visitors through roughly 1000 meters of underground tunnels. Bring sturdy shoes and warm clothing since it stays cool below ground.
A restaurant operates at this location where traditional ham is prepared using the natural asphalt from the mines as a cooking medium. This unusual cooking method is the result of generations of experimentation with underground resources.
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