Wieliczka and Bochnia Royal Salt Mines in Poland

Facts and Data

Webpages:
Official Unesco Page
Wieliczka Salt Mine
CRACOW SALT-WORKS MUSEUM
View photos from OUR PLACE the World Heritage collection

Basis Data:
Unesco World heritage since: 1978
Size of heritage: 1,105 ha
- Buffer zone: 581 ha

Coordinates:
Longitude: 20,064°
Latitude: 49,979°

Summary

The deposit of rock salt in Wieliczka and Bochnia has been mined since the 13th century. This major industrial undertaking has royal status and is the oldest of its type in Europe. The site is a serial property consisting of Wieliczka and Bochnia salt mines and Wieliczka Saltworks Castle. The Wieliczka and Bochnia Royal Salt Mines illustrate the historic stages of the development of mining techniques in Europe from the 13th to the 20th centuries: both mines have hundreds of kilometers of galleries with works of art, underground chapels and statues sculpted in the salt, making a fascinating pilgrimage into the past. The mines were administratively and technically run by Wieliczka Saltworks Castle, which dates from the medieval period and has been rebuilt several times in the course of its history.

Location on Map

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Wieliczka and Bochnia Royal Salt Mines: A Historic UNESCO World Heritage Site in Poland

The Wieliczka and Bochnia Royal Salt Mines, located in southern Poland, are two remarkable underground complexes that have been recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1978. These mines have played a significant role in the history and economy of Poland, and continue to captivate visitors with their unique blend of history, art, and natural beauty.

History

The history of salt mining in the region dates back to the 13th century when the deposits were discovered. The Wieliczka Salt Mine, the older of the two, was established in the 13th century and operated continuously until 1996. The Bochnia Salt Mine, founded in the 12th century, is one of the oldest salt mines in the world and is still in operation today.

Throughout the centuries, these mines were not only a source of salt but also served as important economic centers. The salt extracted from these mines was highly valued and became known as "white gold." It was used for preserving food, as a form of currency, and even as a political bargaining chip.

Over the years, the mines were expanded and transformed into intricate underground complexes. The miners carved out stunning chapels, statues, and even entire underground cathedrals, showcasing their exceptional craftsmanship and devotion. These underground works of art, created by generations of miners, are a testament to their skill and dedication.

Current State

Today, the Wieliczka and Bochnia Royal Salt Mines are open to the public, offering a unique and immersive experience. Visitors can explore the underground labyrinths, descending deep into the mines to witness the awe-inspiring salt chambers, sculptures, and chapels.

The Wieliczka Salt Mine, with its vast network of tunnels and chambers, is a true underground city. It features numerous attractions, including the Chapel of St. Kinga, a breathtaking underground church adorned with intricate salt carvings. The mine also houses a museum that provides insights into the history and techniques of salt mining.

The Bochnia Salt Mine, still an active mine, offers visitors a chance to witness the ongoing salt extraction process. Guided tours take visitors through the underground galleries, showcasing the various stages of salt production. The mine also features a museum that delves into the history of salt mining and its significance in the region.

Address
Distance: 0,5 mi
Ul. Ks. Zygmunta Goliana 22
32-020 Wieliczka
Poland

Time Information

Checkout: 11:00 - Checkin: 14:00
Reception
Weekday: 6:00 - 21:00
Weekend: closed

Videos from the area

El Vístula, Wieliczka y el Dunajec

Published: August 12, 2008
Length: 19:02 min
Rating: 5 of 5
Author: losviajesdejuanmaycarol

Atravesando el Vístula en "transbordador", la Mina de Sal de Wieliczka y el descenso en balsa del Dunajec.

Gracjan Roztocki - Wieliczka

Published: November 24, 2010
Length: 05:06 min
Rating: 2 of 5
Author: Gracjan Roztocki

Gracjan śpiewa swoją nową piosenkę o Wieliczce. Filmował Gracjan Roztocki i MaxBezduszny PL. Wszystkie prawa autorskie zastrzeżone! Kraków 11.2010r. http://www.gracjanroztocki.pl.

5 Memoriał Janusza Kuliga i Mariana Bublewicza - KLIP - Wieliczka, 6 Marca 2011

Published: March 10, 2011
Length: 50:45 min
Rating: 5 of 5
Author: serek1724

Młodzi Polacy z Litwy - audycja Oli Ratusznik

Published: July 05, 2014
Length: 32:05 min
Rating: 4 of 5
Author: Zabierzowianka

Młodzi Polacy z Litwy - audycja Oli Ratusznik - "Radio Kraków" kamera: Maciej Jerzy Rajpolt realizacja: Jan Jacek Walas.

Znamy kolejnego zwycięzcę w Loterii Kas Stefczyka!

Published: December 29, 2014
Length: 00:00 min
Rating: 0 of 5
Author: StefczykTV

Poznaliśmy kolejnego zwycięzcę w Loterii Kas Stefczyka. Dziesiątego grudnia 2014 roku został nim Pan Adam ze Zręczyc. Nagrodę wręczyła w dniu 23 grudnia kierowniczka placówki Kasy...

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