Anthony Mine Shaft

Anthony's Shaft, Antonijev rov, is the museum entrance to the Idrija mercury mine, the second-largest mercury mine in the world in its day and one of the oldest in Europe. Idrija lies in a narrow valley in western Slovenia, and the quicksilver found beneath it shaped five centuries of history, bringing the town wealth, miners, engineers, officials and fame. Mercury was discovered here at the end of the fifteenth century, and the mine operated for around five hundred years before it closed. Together with the mine at Almadén in Spain, it has been inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List in recognition of the importance of mercury mining in world history.

Anthony's Shaft is the part of the mine that visitors can enter. It is among the oldest mine entrances in Europe that remain accessible, and a guided tour takes small groups on foot into the tunnels, where the walls of dark rock show the marks of centuries of work. Guides lead visitors through galleries and chambers and explain how the ore was found, dug, carried out and processed, with displays of tools, lamps and mining equipment. Figures and scenes recreate the work of the miners at different periods, and the underground spaces include a small chapel, a place where the miners prayed before going to the face. The air is cool and damp, so warm clothing is useful, and sturdy shoes are advisable.

The tour also covers the human side of the story. Mining was hard and dangerous work, and mercury poisoning was a constant threat for those who handled the ore and its products. Yet the mine also gave the town its character, supporting a rich tradition of culture, education and craftsmanship, including the famous lace of Idrija, which women made at home in the mining families. Multimedia displays and exhibits above ground explain the role of mercury in medicine, mirrors, gilding and industry, and how Idrija supplied the metal to merchants across Europe.

The site is part of a cluster of sights in the town, among them Gewerkenegg Castle, the former mine administration, the kamšt, a huge wooden water-driven pump, and the Idrija Geopark visitors' centre. The Wild Lake, a karst spring nearby, and the Zgornja Idrijca landscape area offer walks. A café at the museum provides a place to rest between sights.

The tour suits families with older children, history lovers and those interested in technology and mining. Booking ahead is wise, especially in summer and for groups, and details of times and prices should be checked before travelling.