The Meurin Roman mine near Kretz is part of the largest Roman underground tuff mining area north of the Alps and is an archaeological highlight in the volcano park. Today, the futuristic, self-supporting hall construction protects the preserved part of the mining area and the uncovered archaeological excavations.
Here, everything revolves around the valuable tuff, which comes from the huge eruption of the Laacher See volcano, and the life and work of the ancient Romans with this valuable rock. Visitors to the Meurin Roman mine are transported back 2,000 years to a time when Roman miners laboriously quarried the heavy blocks of tuff underground. Narrow passages, poor lighting conditions and dusty air characterized the everyday life of the workers.
Go on a journey through the dark shafts and dusty mining chambers into the ancient underground working world. Large illuminated pictures and an exciting movie in the “cinema tunnel” impressively show the hard and dangerous work underground.
The stone blocks that were quarried underground were also processed on the surface. Forging, cooking, sawing and grinding took place here. In the outdoor area of the Meurin Roman mine, you can also explore this part of the everyday life of Roman miners. A Roman stone saw based on a Byzantine model, stonemasons' huts, Roman mills, column lathes and a furnished kitchen bring the (ancient) working world back to life.
For its unique concept and presentation, the Meurin Roman Mine has twice been awarded one of the highest European cultural prizes by Europa Nostra, the European Union Prize for Cultural Heritage / Europa Nostra Award. Plan about 1 to 1.5 hours for your visit to the Meurin Roman Mine.
ADRESSE:
Meurin Roman mine
Nickenicher Street
56630 Kretz
Tel: 01801 885526
INTERESTING FACTS FOR EXCURSION PLANNING
- The Meurin Roman mine is only accessible to a limited extent
- An audio guide is available in German and English
- Parking spaces and toilets are located approx. 350 m from the mine
- The Meurin Roman Mine is closed during the winter season (early November to mid-March)
