Underground Mining Museum

The museum was established in the preserved tunnels of the József Inclined Shaft: this part of the mine operated in the mid-20th century, and the exhibition site opened in 1965 as Hungary's first underground mining museum (and one of the earliest in Europe to be set up in an original mine). During your visit, you won't just be walking through a "set" but an actual mining area that has retained its original character and been adapted for display purposes.

The underground route is approximately 290 metres long and showcases at several stations how coal mining technology evolved from simple manual labour to mechanised longwall mining. The mining railway, tunnel construction, phases of extraction work, as well as transportation and ventilation solutions, are all presented as part of the "working environment." One memorable feature of the exhibition is the depiction of pit ponies, which helps visitors understand what underground transportation was like before mechanisation.

Above ground, the mining exhibition and machinery displays complete the picture: the visit is not just about "descending underground" but also about exploring a broader story of industrial and local history. 

The essence of UNESCO Global Geoparks is not merely to "list" interesting sites but to promote sustainable local development, high-quality geotourism, and strong educational and awareness-raising efforts, all based on outstanding geological heritage. Geoparks must operate with a comprehensive, jointly agreed management plan, aiming to protect both the landscape and cultural identity while considering the socio-economic needs of local communities.

Within this framework, a mining museum is a particularly "geopark-compatible" site:

• it helps to understand that geological resources (minerals, energy carriers) are non-renewable, requiring a responsible approach to their use;

• it provides a tangible example of how past resource use (coal) can now be presented for educational and heritage preservation purposes, with environmentally conscious messages;

• through geotourism, it can contribute to the local economy while basing its presentation on preservation and education.

The sustainability value of the Underground Mining Museum lies primarily in its repurposing of an existing industrial facility: "recycling" the mine tunnels (heritage-based utilisation) not only reduces the need for new interventions but also preserves the site's spirit. Additionally, experience-based presentations – if they effectively interpret the social and environmental context of mining – can provide visitors with knowledge that aligns with one of the core missions of geoparks: learning about the landscape, resources, and responsible usage.

The site typically operates with guided, controlled visits, which is important for both safety and "gentle use." The mine maintains a temperature of around 15°C, so closed shoes and layered clothing are recommended, and helmets are provided. It’s worth planning your visit to coincide with the departure of the last group of the day.

In line with the geopark approach, it’s worth planning your visit as more than just "an attraction" – make it part of a slower-paced day that respects local values: less rushing, more understanding, and a conscious choice of routes that align with the natural and cultural highlights of the area.

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