Emilianus-Stollen, Roman copper mine in St. Barbara district, Wallerfangen, Germany
The Emilianus-Stollen is a copper mine in Wallerfangen that extends approximately 21 meters into the mountain. A stone inscription at the entrance records ancient regulations governing mining operations from Roman times.
This mine operated during the 2nd and 3rd centuries AD as evidence of Roman copper extraction in the region. It remains the only documented underground Roman mining operation found in Central Europe.
The mine inscription documents ancient Roman mining laws, requiring operations to start within 25 days and maintain regular activity to preserve mining rights.
The mine sits approximately 150 meters from the main road and is accessible to visitors. It is best visited during dry weather, as the passages inside can be damp.
A lower tunnel contains preserved Roman mining tools and original shaft structures that remain untouched to this day. These discoveries reveal the working methods and craftsmanship of ancient miners.
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