Friday, 19 July 2019

Wieliczka Salt Mine, Poland

*WS34 - Wieliczka Salt Mine, Poland*

Wieliczka is a suburb in Krakow, the 2nd largest city in Poland. The mine, started in the 13th century, produced table salt continuously until 2007. The mine reaches a depth of 327 m and the length of the tunnels over 287 km long. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. 

It is a major tourist attraction in Poland. We were here in 2015. About 3.5 km of the route is open to the public. The initial parts showcase the history and mining technology. 

The rock salt is naturally grey in various shades, not white or crystalline. Salt statues carved over the years are exhibited. 

The Poles are fiercely religious, many of the carvings are based on Bible stories. The mine is often referred to as the Underground Salt Cathedral of Poland. Even the crystals of the chandeliers are made from rock salt that has been resolved and reconstituted to achieve a clear, glass-like appearance.









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