Old Mine of Outokumpu
Pohjois-Karjala
The Old Mine of Outokumpu, located in Pohjois-Karjala, Finland, was the site of Finland's pioneering copper mining operations from 1910 to 1989. It originated from a remarkable discovery in 1908 when Otto Trüstedt identified a copper-rich boulder leading to the extensive Outokumpu ore deposit. The mine developed around a four-kilometer-long, 400-meter-wide, and 40-meter-high copper ore body, which gave rise to the Outokumpu company. The site features a distinctive hillside ore enrichment plant and a copper smelter that operated until 1929. The Old Mine area includes a historic mining tower, which offers spectacular views over the mining district and the town. Visitors can explore a 277-meter-long museum tunnel that authentically recreates the mining environment of the 20th century, complete with photographs and antique mining machinery. The site also offers family-friendly attractions such as a playground and an 18-hole frisbee golf course, enhancing the visitor experience. The Old Mine of Outokumpu stands out as a cultural and industrial heritage site, blending history, adventure, and education in a unique setting.
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Tip: The Old Mine is open Monday to Friday from 10:00 to 15:00, but it is closed during Easter. It is recommended to check opening hours and book group tours in advance. Visitors with museum cards can enjoy access to the mine's exhibitions. The best time to visit is during the warmer months for comfortable outdoor activities like frisbee golf. The site offers engaging experiences for families, so plan accordingly to include the playground and museum tunnels in your visit.
Interesting facts
- •The Outokumpu mine was Finland's first copper mine discovered through boulder prospecting.
- •The mining tower, known as Keskuskuilu 1, served as a ventilation shaft until 1989 and features a 400 kW electric heater.
- •The Keretti mine was once the second largest copper mine in Europe when it opened in 1954.
- •The museum tunnel is 277 meters long and showcases original mining equipment and photographs from the 20th century.
- •The Old Mine site includes an 18-hole frisbee golf course, unique for a mining museum setting.
History
The Outokumpu copper deposit was discovered in 1908 by Otto Trüstedt, marking Finland's first copper find via boulder prospecting.
Mining began with test excavations in 1910, and by 1913 operations centered around the eponymous Outokumpu hill.
Under the leadership of Eero Mäkinen in the 1920s, the Old Mine was modernized and production increased significantly.
Later, mining expanded to the Mökkivaara and Keretti areas, with the Keretti mine operating until its closure in 1989.
The Old Mine's ventilation shaft remained in use until the end of mining activities.
The site transitioned from an active industrial mine to a museum preserving the region's mining heritage.
Place Guide
Mining Tower (Keskuskuilu 1)1920s
This iconic tower functioned as the main ventilation shaft for the mine until 1989. It features a powerful electric heater and offers panoramic views of the mining area and town.
Museum Tunnel
A 277-meter-long tunnel that recreates the authentic mining environment with original mining machinery and historical photographs, providing insight into 20th-century mining life.
Frisbee Golf Course
An 18-hole frisbee golf course built adjacent to the Old Mine, offering a unique recreational activity in a historic mining landscape.
Playground Area
A safe and versatile playground designed for children, making the Old Mine a family-friendly destination where adults can relax and enjoy the historic surroundings.
Contact
Phone: 044 7559222
