Mines of Rammelsberg, Historic Town of Goslar and Upper Harz Water Management System in Germany

Facts and Data

Webpages:
Official Unesco Page
Bergwerk Rammelsberg und Altstadt von Goslar (Deutsche UNESCO- Kommission)(german only)
View photos from OUR PLACE the World Heritage collection
UNESCO Commission of Germany

Basis Data:
Unesco World heritage since: 1992
Size of heritage: 1,010 ha
- Buffer zone: 5,655 ha

Coordinates:
Longitude: 10,340°
Latitude: 51,820°

Summary

The Upper Harz mining water management system, which lies south of the Rammelsberg mines and the town of Goslar, has been developed over a period of some 800 years to assist in the process of extracting ore for the production of non-ferrous metals. Its construction was first undertaken in the Middle Ages by Cistercian monks, and it was then developed on a vast scale from the end of the 16th century until the 19th century. It is made up of an extremely complex but perfectly coherent system of artificial ponds, small channels, tunnels and underground drains. It enabled the development of water power for use in mining and metallurgical processes. It is a major site for mining innovation in the western world.

Location on Map

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The Mines of Rammelsberg, Historic Town of Goslar and Upper Harz Water Management System

The Mines of Rammelsberg, Historic Town of Goslar and Upper Harz Water Management System is a UNESCO World Heritage site located in Germany. This site encompasses the Rammelsberg mines, the historic town of Goslar, and the Upper Harz Water Management System. It was inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage list in 1992 due to its outstanding universal value.

History

The history of this heritage site dates back to the 10th century when mining activities began at the Rammelsberg mines. These mines were a significant source of silver, lead, and zinc for over a millennium. The extraction of these minerals played a crucial role in the economic development of the region and contributed to the wealth and power of the Holy Roman Empire.

The town of Goslar, located near the mines, flourished as a result of the mining activities. It became an important center for trade and commerce, attracting merchants from all over Europe. The town's architecture reflects its prosperous past, with numerous well-preserved medieval buildings, including the Imperial Palace and the Market Square.

The Upper Harz Water Management System, an intricate network of reservoirs, channels, and water wheels, was developed to provide water for the mining operations. This system, which dates back to the 16th century, is a remarkable example of early industrial water management. It allowed for the efficient extraction of minerals by providing a constant supply of water to power the mining machinery.

Current State

Today, the Mines of Rammelsberg, Historic Town of Goslar and Upper Harz Water Management System is a well-preserved and accessible heritage site. The Rammelsberg mines are open to visitors, offering guided tours that provide insights into the mining techniques and the lives of the miners. The underground mine museum showcases the tools and equipment used throughout history.

The historic town of Goslar continues to thrive as a vibrant cultural and tourist destination. Its well-preserved medieval architecture attracts visitors from around the world. The Imperial Palace, a prominent landmark, is open to the public and offers a glimpse into the grandeur of the past.

The Upper Harz Water Management System remains functional to this day. It is still used for water supply and flood control in the region. The system's engineering marvels, such as the dams, reservoirs, and water wheels, can be explored through hiking and biking trails that traverse the picturesque Harz Mountains.

Address
Distance: 1,8 mi
Kreuzeck 1 - 3
38644 Goslar
Germany

Time Information

Checkout: 10:30 - Checkin: 15:00
Reception
Weekday: 8:00 - 21:30
Weekend: 8:00 - 21:30

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