Morassina, Show mine in Schmiedefeld, Germany.
Morassina is a show mine in Schmiedefeld that contains underground passages with mineral formations and various geological structures. A network of tunnels opens up different layers and shows how the subsurface in this region is formed.
The mine was first documented in 1683 and then operated for nearly two centuries, extracting alum, iron sulfate, copper sulfate, and colored clays. Operations ended in 1860 when the site was closed.
Mining shaped the region for generations, and workers used these passages daily to extract raw materials from the earth. Today, exhibitions here show how people once labored in the dark tunnels and what minerals they sought.
Visitors can join guided tours through the underground passages, offered in multiple languages throughout the season. The tours make it possible to explore the tunnels safely with expert explanations.
The site houses a licensed spa facility underground where visitors can receive radium treatments in the subterranean environment. This unusual combination of minerals and healing treatments makes it a rare offering of its kind.
Location: Saalfeld
GPS coordinates: 50.53500,11.21667
Latest update: December 6, 2025 17:44
Thuringia contains a notable variety of historic sites, from medieval castles on wooded heights to baroque palaces in landscaped parks. The region preserves Romanesque monastic complexes such as Paulinzella, Renaissance residences including Wilhelmsburg in Schmalkalden, and significant collections like the Lindenau Museum in Altenburg. Beyond architectural landmarks, Thuringia offers geological features: the Saalfeld Fairy Grottoes are considered the most colorful show mine in the world, the Barbarossa Cave near Rottleben is one of Europe's largest anhydrite caves, and the Morassina healing caves in Schmiedefeld have served therapeutic purposes since the 19th century. Cultural institutions range from technical museums such as the Ziegenrück hydroelectric power museum to the Apolda bell foundry museum and botanical installations like the Japanese garden in Bad Langensalza. Historic transportation systems including the Oberweissbach mountain railway, which has covered a vertical rise of 1,060 feet (323 meters) since 1923, complement the offerings. Natural monuments such as the Dragon Gorge near Eisenach, a narrow ravine with rock walls reaching 33 feet (10 meters) in height, and viewpoints like Leuchtenburg above the Saale valley combine natural and cultural experiences.
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