Mercury Heritage: Almadén and Idrija

Mercury Heritage: Almadén and Idrija

On June 30, 2012, the 36th session of the World Heritage Committee discussed and approved the inclusion of the Mercury Heritage: Almadén and Idrija in the World Heritage List. This heritage site is located in Slovenia and Spain, comprising the mining areas of Almadén and Idrija. Mercury extraction in Almadén began as early as ancient times, while the presence of mercury in Idrija was first discovered in 1490.

The Spanish part of the heritage includes buildings that showcase the history of mining, such as Retamar Castle, religious structures, and traditional houses. The Idrija site is characterized by local shops and infrastructure, as well as miners' dormitories and the miners' theatre. This heritage bears witness to intercontinental trade and the important exchange history between Europe and the Americas that developed over centuries based on it. These two sites are the world’s two largest mercury mines, and their exploitation continued until quite recently.

Heritage of Mercury. Almadén and Idrija

Reason to visit: The world’s two largest mercury mines

Continent where the attraction is located: Europe【Europe】

Country/Region where the attraction is located: Slovenia[Slovenia]

Province/State where the attraction is located: Idrija [Idrija]