Mine Shaft Andrzej, Mining monument in Wirek, Poland.
Mine Shaft Andrzej is a brick mining installation in Wirek featuring a headframe that rises above ground to support the vertical shaft system for coal extraction. The brick structure displays the industrial architecture typical of Silesian mining facilities, with a distinctive form that still defines the local landscape.
The shaft was built in 1870 and served as a key element during the rapid industrialization of the Upper Silesian mining region. Its construction coincided with the period of intense coal extraction when the area became one of Europe's major production centers.
The shaft represents the mining heritage that shaped Ruda Śląska for generations, standing as a physical link to the coal industry that defined the region. The structure carries the memory of countless workers whose labor built the industrial identity of Upper Silesia.
The installation is located in Wirek and accessible for visitors interested in exploring industrial heritage. It is helpful to view the structure from different angles to appreciate its architectural details and to explore the surrounding area.
The structure incorporates specialized engineering solutions to manage rope extension during operation, allowing for precise control of elevator positioning. These technical details reflect the care taken in designing mining equipment to ensure both safety and efficiency.
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