Slovenské opálové bane
Slovakia is among the most beautiful European countries. It is known for its ruggedness, the diversity of its terrain relief, and the richness of both its fauna and flora. This great differentiation is also due to the varying geological bedrock of individual regions. It was precisely the suitable geological bedrock of Slanské vrchy near Prešov that proved to be a unique deposit of precious opal. Come and take a tour of the oldest opal mines in the world. You will find the rock bedrock riddled with tunnels like Swiss cheese on the road between the villages of Zlatá Baňa and Červenica.
The history of the opal mines began to be written presumably in 1409. The first written mention of them dates from this year. Until the discovery of opal deposits in Mexico and Australia, this place was the only location in the world where opal was mined. Opals from the Dubník locality were set into jewelry worn by many female monarchs. Did you know that a necklace created from Slovak opals was even owned by the wife of Emperor Napoleon?
Slovak opals are exceptional for their color and unique brilliance, the likes of which you will not find in any others in the world. The largest opal ever mined in our country can be found in Vienna at the Museum of Natural History. Somewhat smaller specimens are, in turn, housed in Budapest. Since 1922, however, the mines have been closed due to their unprofitability. It took more than 90 years before they were "rediscovered" and began to be used as a mining museum.
Today, you can experience a wonderful tour combined with commentary from the fields of history, geology, and mineralogy, and learn a bit more about the treasures hidden in the heart of Slanské vrchy. The network of intricate underground tunnels reaches over 35 km. A basic 1 km long circuit is open to visitors, filled with points of interest and attractions that will engage children as well. The attractions are expanded with new elements every year, so you will not be bored even during a repeat visit. The guides will guarantee this with their unique approach. Do not expect a boring lecture. Prepare yourself for real fun.
Before entering the mine, they will equip you with a helmet and a flashlight. Its light casting dark shadows will awaken the imagination in your mind. Will you find hidden goblins, Permoníci, in the mine? Will you be afraid to walk through a dark corridor in complete darkness? Will you discover a glowing opal hidden in the rock? These are all questions you can ask yourselves before entering the mine. The area surrounding the mines is also attractive and offers great opportunities for hiking. After your visit, you can stop by a small shop where, in addition to refreshments, you can buy a piece of rock with a real Slovak opal.
To enjoy your day near the mines to the fullest, we recommend that you also do not miss a tour of Lipovecký hrad – Liptovec. Only terrain traces, excavations, ramparts, and moats have been preserved today from what was once a monumental structure. Seeing a giant megaphone with your own eyes is possible near Zlatá Baňa. Here you will find Hlas lesa, a wooden megaphone that conveys the sounds of the forest. For recreation in the summer, you can head to Sigord. It is a water reservoir that will cool down your heated bodies on hot sunny days. In winter, in turn, you can enjoy perfect skiing on the slopes of the Zámutov ski resort.
It is good to reserve a sufficient amount of time for visiting the mines along with other attractions. This will allow you to fully enjoy the overall relaxed atmosphere of your stay. Accommodation near Slovenské opálové bane can also serve you well to keep you close to other attractions. It is great to lay your head at a host's property offering one of the apartments in Červenica, or a cabin hidden in the woods. Rest assured that if you choose from our offer, you will certainly not regret it.
