Literaturcafé mit Dr. Wilfried Ließmann

The Harz Mountains - mining region and geopark above and below ground

The Harz Mountains have been known for their wealth of metals and usable minerals since time immemorial. The region was an early supplier of copper, lead and iron. From the Middle Ages onwards, however, silver took centre stage and gave rise to a veritable "mining state" in the Upper Harz with its very own cultural character. It was not until later that the abundance of zinc became the economic focus, which kept metal ore mining alive until 1992. Modern mining
also focussed on industrial minerals such as fluorite and barite, which were extracted in considerable quantities until very recently.

Despite its relatively small size, the Harz Mountains exhibit a broad spectrum of geological phenomena and different types of rock that represent around 450 million years of geological history. Today, the low mountain range is one of the internationally recognised geoparks. It can rightly be described as a "classic site" for geological research. More than 150 years ago, the Goslar - Bad Harzburg - Brocken area was awarded the title of "classic square mile of geology" - an honour that is still used today. Today's UNESCO World Heritage Site in the Harz Mountains is thanks to ore mining, as is today's Clausthal University of Technology, which was founded 250 years ago as a mining school. On the other hand, the legacy left behind by the mining industry is an ecologically highly problematic legacy. The lecture will highlight some of the famous geotopes as well as a selection of surface and underground mining highlights.

There is no separate admission charge for this event. All spectators need is an admission ticket for the Bürgerpark.

Attribute :

Visitor parking

Barrier-free

E-charging point

Wheelchair accessible

Pet free

Playground

Baby changing room

Suitable for seniors

Adults only