Kleva Mine
Kalmar län
Kleva Mine, located in Kalmar län, Sweden, is a former copper and nickel mine discovered in 1691. Initially mined for copper, its significance shifted in 1838 when chemist Jöns Jacob Berzelius identified nickel deposits, leading to predominant nickel extraction. The mine was deepened to nearly 110 meters between 1914 and 1919. Besides copper and nickel, the mine produced red pigment from weathered ore. The mineral deposits mainly consist of nickel-bearing pyrrhotite, copper, and sulfide minerals within diorite rock. Historically, ore processing facilities were located near a waterfall in Emån, close to Ädelfors, about 6 km southeast. Today, Kleva Mine operates as an adventure park known as Kleva Gruva Äventyrsberget, featuring mining tours, climbing activities, gold panning, and treasure hunts suitable for families. This transformation preserves the mining heritage while providing engaging outdoor experiences.
Plan your trip to Sweden with AI
Create a detailed itinerary in minutes. AI suggests the best places, restaurants, and an optimized route.
Tip: Visit during the warmer months for the full range of outdoor activities like climbing and gold panning. Booking tickets in advance is recommended, especially for group visits and weekends. Family discounts are often available. Wear sturdy shoes for the mine tours and outdoor adventures.
Interesting facts
- •The mine was deepened to 109.6 meters between 1914 and 1919 to improve ore extraction.
- •Jöns Jacob Berzelius, a renowned chemist, identified the nickel deposits in 1838, changing the mine's production focus.
- •Besides copper and nickel, the mine produced red pigment from weathered ore waste.
- •The mine is part of a larger mining area including the nearby Ädelfors gold mine and processing facilities.
- •Today, Kleva Mine serves as an adventure park offering activities like climbing and gold panning.
History
Kleva Mine was discovered in 1691 and was initially mined for copper.
In 1838, Jöns Jacob Berzelius's discovery of nickel deposits shifted mining focus predominantly to nickel extraction.
Between 1914 and 1919, the mine was deepened to 109.6 meters to access richer ore veins.
In addition to metal extraction, the mine's weathered ore was used to produce red pigment.
Mining operations ceased in the 20th century, and the site has since been repurposed as a tourist attraction and adventure park.
Place Guide
Mining Tunnel Tours1691–1919
Explore the historic underground tunnels of Kleva Mine, learning about the mining techniques used from the 17th century through the 20th century. Guides explain the geology and mineralogy of the area.
Adventure Park Activities
Outdoor activities including climbing walls, gold panning stations, and treasure hunts designed for families and children to engage with the mining heritage in a fun way.
