matildes

Discovering Cartagena

More Articles By Phillip Bruce www.raxomnium.com

Matildes Mine Opened To Visitors

The fascinating history of mining in the Sierra Minera, the rich hills that run away to the east of Cartagena, can be explored at the Matildes mine.

This mine was opened recently so that visitors can see a genuine mine in action. The mine primarily excavated lead and the formerly roofless building next to the winding gear has been restored to house an exhibition centre. A model shows all the hills and panels and displays inside explain the history, although everything is in Spanish. Never mind, it’s reasonably easy to work out what is going on and English information will probably be included in the future.

The Matildes mine neighbours on another mine, Minas Blanca, which can be seen a little way in the distance. At the moment this is not open to visitors. However, the building is very interesting as it is a genuine “Cornish” building in the middle of Spain. The story is that big steam engines were brought from Cornwall to help pump water from the mines but they were so powerful that normal buildings were quickly shaken to bits. So, the Cornish design was used and this allowed the big steam engines and pumps to operate at full capacity. It is hoped that this mine will also be restored in the future.

At Matildes the towering structure that supported the winding gear stands gaunt next to the mine building and the seemingly bottomless shaft heads into the depths of the earth below. Amongst the displays are the giant tools that were used to maintain the machinery.

Although the Matildes mine can be seen from the motorway that runs to the La Manga strip, finding access is difficult. It might be best to call in at the La Union tourist office in the old market in the town and ask for directions first.

Matildes mine is open every day, except Monday, from 10am to 2pm. It opens again in the afternoon for previously-booked group visits of 15 or more people. Mina Las Matildes, El Beal, Cartagena. Telephone 628 073 482. www.fundacionsierraminera.org/proyectos/jara. email: guias@fundacionsierraminera.org.

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