Ofenkaulen, Underground quarry system in Königswinter, Germany.
Ofenkaulen is an underground mining system in Königswinter created over centuries through extraction of trachyte tuff. The site consists of an extensive network of tunnels running deep into the mountainside.
Stone extraction began here in early times and continued for several centuries. During World War II, the tunnels were converted into a weapons factory where forced laborers from Russia and Poland manufactured aircraft components.
The name 'Königswinter Ovens' refers to the stones extracted here and used throughout the region for baking purposes. Visitors can observe how central this site was to local craftsmanship and daily work.
The tunnels have been sealed with concrete since the 1980s and are not accessible to visitors. Small openings remain to allow bats access to their winter roosting areas.
A detailed 3D reconstruction allows visitors to explore the otherwise inaccessible tunnel system virtually. This modern technology has made visible a place that would otherwise remain completely hidden.
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