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The Freiberg Northern Mining Field clearly illustrates the complex interaction between mining, smelting, infrastructure and social structures from the 18th century onward. It is the site of the world’s first smelting complex, where the amalgamation process was used to extract silver on a large scale. Workers’ houses and the mineral baths are evidence of the social structures that used to be here. Silver ore processed in the smeltery was transported, primarily from the mines in the north, via a shipping canal (ore canal). The two tub boat lifts on the ore canal are believed to have been the first ship lifts of this kind in the world.


Active associations in the Erzgebirge/Krušnohoří Mining Region: 

Siedlerverein Erzwäsche Halsbrücke e. V. (residents’ association)

Siebentes Lichtloch e. V.

Impressions