Aurelia Gold Mine in Złotoryja

Gold mining in the vicinity of Złotoryja developed mainly on sedimentary (alluvial) deposits. This type of extraction was carried out in gold-bearing sands exposed on the slopes of the Kaczawa River valley. Gold was also obtained by exploiting gold-bearing veins within hard rocks such as diabases, rhyolites, and schists. An example of such exploitation is the “Aurelia” Gold Mine, carved beneath St. Nicholas Hill. The history of this mine is lost in the mists of time. It is known that one of the adits was excavated around 1660, while other tunnels and shafts were most likely dug in the 20th century as exploratory shafts.

The “Aurelia” Gold Mine still hides many secrets. For unknown reasons, some of the tunnels were backfilled—probably by German troops retreating from the area. For this reason, in modern times many enthusiasts have worked voluntarily in the mine, uncovering and exploring forgotten shafts and adits. In 1997, a backfilled shaft was discovered and named the “Karol Shaft” after its discoverer. It is 28 meters long and contains numerous side passages that have not yet been examined or explored. In the future, this shaft is planned to be opened to tourists.

What can be seen in the mine:
The length of the tourist route is approximately 100 meters. The adit was carved into hard diabase rock, and iron ore deposits can be seen on the walls. Numerous side passages branch off from the main tunnel, as well as a ventilation shaft inhabited by bats.

Route information:
The temperature underground is approximately +8°C and remains constant. Other inconveniences include low and narrow corridors, high humidity, and permanent lighting. The site is not accessible to people with disabilities. Tours are conducted only with protective helmets.

Mine surroundings:
In 2006, construction of the infrastructure surrounding the “Aurelia” Gold Mine was completed. A roofed shelter with benches and a table was built, along with a brick barbecue and a large children’s playground featuring slides and swings. Below the mine there is a masonry basin where visitors can recreationally pan for gold. A large parking area was also constructed for motorized tourists, capable of accommodating several coaches.

How to get to the mine (location: on the outskirts of the town):
From the town center, head toward the cemetery along Cmentarna Street, then turn onto B. Chrobrego Street. Near the buildings of the Shoe Factory, follow the Kaczawa River. At the foot of St. Nicholas Hill, the mine is located.