Water Pump of Idrija (kamšt)

The Water Pump of Idrija, known locally as the “Kamšt,” is a remarkable feat of historical engineering and a must-see for visitors interested in Slovenia’s industrial heritage. Located in the town of Idrija, a UNESCO World Heritage Site famed for its mercury mine, the Kamšt is the largest preserved wooden waterwheel in Europe, with an impressive diameter of 13.6 meters.

Installed in 1790, this water-powered device played a crucial role in the operation of the Idrija Mercury Mine, using the steady flow of the Idrijca River—channeled through a 3.5 km canal—to drive its massive wheel. The Kamšt’s ingenious mechanism enabled it to pump approximately 300 liters of water per minute from depths of nearly 300 meters, keeping the mine dry and operational for over 150 years, until 1948.

Today, visitors can see the Kamšt in its original stone building, where the wheel and associated mining transport vehicles, including Slovenia’s oldest electric locomotives, are on display. The site offers a fascinating glimpse into the advanced mining technology of the era and the ingenuity required to tackle the challenges of deep mining.

The Kamšt is open daily from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM, with admission fees of €3 for adults and €2 for students and children. A visit here provides a unique perspective on Idrija’s rich industrial past and its legacy of innovation.