Falun Mine (Great Copper Mountain)
Falu gruva
A World Heritage mine that has operated for over a thousand years and once supplied much of Europe's copper. Visitors can wear a hard hat and descend into the old shafts 67 meters underground.
Mining at Falun Mine can be traced back 1,000 years. In the 17th century, its output at one point made up about two-thirds of all copper produced in Europe. The mine provided the funds that helped Sweden become a great power. Mining ceased in 1992, and in 2001 the mine and the town of Falun were inscribed together as a World Heritage Site. The most dramatic sight above ground is the 'Great Pit' (Stora Stöten), a collapse that formed in 1687. It is about 95 meters deep and can be viewed from a walkway along its edge. The Mining Museum tells the history of mining here. The 'Falu red' paint traditionally used on Swedish houses comes from the slag of this mine. The underground guided tour lasts about an hour and takes you down the old shafts to about 67 meters. The temperature underground stays around 5°C year-round, so bring a jacket. Tickets must be booked in advance. The mine is about 50 kilometers from Rättvik and can be combined with a visit to the Carl Larsson House on the same day.
Opening hours
Summer approx. 10:00–17:00; shorter in other seasons (check official website)
Nearby sights
- Lugnet Ski Stadium, Falun
- Carl Larsson House
- Vidablick Tower
- Rättvik Långbryggan
- Rättvik Church
- Dalhalla
- Leksand Church
- Hildasholm