Peca Underground – Tourist Mine and Museum
Carinthia
Peca Underground – Tourist Mine and Museum is located in Mežica, Slovenia, near the Austrian border in the Carinthia region. This museum preserves the legacy of the lead and zinc mining operations that began in 1665 and continued until 1994 under Mount Peca. Visitors can experience the mine's underground tunnels via a mining train ride, kayak through flooded passages, or bike along a 5-kilometer trail connecting two valleys. The museum is housed in a historic building constructed in 1928 by English mine owners, featuring administrative offices and supervisors' apartments. Beyond the mining heritage, the site offers an adventure park that brings to life the region's geological and cultural history, including references to local legends and prehistoric times. The preserved miners' gathering space hosts concerts and cultural events, adding a vibrant community dimension to the site. Peca Underground combines history, adventure, and culture, making it a unique destination for tourists interested in industrial heritage and outdoor activities.
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Tip: The best time to visit is during the warmer months when all outdoor activities like kayaking and mountain biking are available. It is recommended to book tickets online in advance, especially for the popular underground train and kayak tours. Visitors can benefit from combined offers and group discounts. The site also offers customized experiences and team-building events, so check availability if planning a special visit. The adventure park and concerts provide additional entertainment options beyond the mine tours.
Interesting facts
- •The mining train takes visitors into the underground tunnels just as miners did in the past.
- •Visitors can kayak through flooded mine tunnels, a rare and unique underground activity.
- •The museum building was constructed in 1928 by English owners and includes former administrative offices and supervisors' apartments.
- •The adventure park nearby features themes from the era of dinosaurs and local folklore like King Matjaž.
- •The preserved miners' gathering space, called “frlezcimr”, hosts cultural events including a Christmas-New Year’s concert with a 20-year tradition.
History
Mining at Mount Peca began in 1665, establishing Mežica as a key mining town in northern Slovenia.
Over centuries, the mine expanded under various owners, including English proprietors who built the current museum building in 1928.
Mining operations ceased in 1994, after which the site was repurposed for tourism and cultural activities.
The transition from an industrial mine to a tourist attraction has preserved much of the original infrastructure and mining culture, allowing visitors to explore the underground tunnels and experience the miners' heritage firsthand.
Place Guide
Mining Train Tour
Experience the underground mine by riding the historic mining train through the tunnels, simulating the miners' daily commute.
Kayak Tour in Flooded Tunnels
Explore the submerged sections of the mine by kayak, navigating through flooded passages rarely accessible to the public.
Black Hole Trail
A challenging mountain biking trail descending from the mine area, designed for experienced bikers seeking adrenaline-pumping rides.
Mežica Mine Museum Building1928
Historic building from 1928 housing administrative rooms and apartments for mining supervisors, now hosting mineral collections and exhibits.
Adventure Park
An outdoor educational park illustrating the region's geological past, including dinosaurs and local folklore, with paintings by academic artist Barbara Jurkovšek.
Contact
Phone: (02) 870 01 80