Day break in the Harz: Over 300 years old mining strikes back!

Day break in the Harz: Over 300 years old mining strikes back!

The Harz, once the heart of German mining, has spectacularly reported back! In Wolfshagen, Goslar district, a breathtaking day break has opened up - a crater of eight meters depth and five meters wide, which literally tears the earth. This geological phenomenon is the result of centuries -long mining activities that have shaped the region.

The crater, which was discovered in the middle of an unused meadow, is an impressive sign of the past. "This is ideal in terms of circumstances," explains Thomas Finkudeldey from the State Office for Mining, Energy and Geology (LBEG). Fortunately, the fracture of the day is far from inhabited areas and therefore no passers -by or buildings. The area is already cordoned off with a construction fence to ensure security.

origin of the phenomenon

The roots of this spectacular event go back to the 18th century when the Upper Gülden pit was operated between 1743 and 1745. Historical records show that the original shaft was about twelve meters deep and was part of a complex system of shafts and tunnels. But the exact details are only incompletely known today, since the remains of the old shafts can only be localized using Halden.

Since there is no legal successor to the former operators, the state of Lower Saxony will take responsibility for the renovation. It is planned to fill the crater with 30 to 40 tons of gravel. "We need heavy equipment for material transport, and suitable weather conditions are crucial in order not to put a strain on the landscape," says Finkldey. The work could be completed before Christmas, and soon nature will be able to thrive undisturbed again. "Then grass literally grows again," he adds.