Pyrite adits - fool's gold!

Pyrite looks similar to the most precious metal, gold. Hence, it was called “Fool’s Gold” when it was discovered by the Walloons in the 16th century. Meanwhile, it found applications in the production of sulfuric acid. The acid produced from it was mainly used as an ingredient in cloth dyes, ink production, and gunpowder.

After the Thirty Years' War, operations ceased. Mining resumed after 1773 with the establishment of a new vitriol factory in Lower Szklarska Poręba. At that time, 400 tons of pyrite were mined annually. The mine was closed in the early 19th century.

Today's appearance of the excavation site differs significantly from the original, as the central part has collapsed. However, this makes access to the interior of the mine very easy. Noteworthy is the rocky miner's bridge supporting the walls of the excavation. In total, the adit is slightly over 100 meters long. On the other side of the entrance, there is another chamber, from which a right-hand pathway leads to a deep extraction chamber built in a circular plan. Going straight, you will reach a two-level chamber. Access to the upper level is possible via a specially prepared ladder.

How to get to the Adit?

From Zakręt Śmierci, where you can leave your car in the parking lot, you need to go down the black and yellow pedestrian trail - they run together on this section. After about fifteen minutes, you will reach a marked spot where you need to leave the trail and turn right. A narrow path will lead to the former mine.

Discover the nooks and crannies of Szklarska Poręba on the Walloon Trail.