Mining Museum

Part of the Colline Metallifere mining and mineral parks network, this museum is set up inside an old World War II shelter on the outskirts of Massa Marittima.

Definitely not for the claustrophobic as the museum’s route winds through more than 700 meters of tunnels dug into the hills around the city.

What I love about this museum is its dedication to preserving what could be described as a culture within the culture of Massa Marittima. These miners had their own traditions, superstitions and lifestyle.

This museum captures this culture, using the beautifully restored tunnels to document the lives of those who sometimes perished fueling the city’s economy and providing the minerals which, when sold, enabled wealthier men to build the magnificent buildings they now attract. thousands of tourists in Massa Marittima every year.

The tunnels were laid out to mirror a working mine. You’ll see the different types of vault supports used by the miners of Massa Marittima, the ways they extracted the stone and minerals, and the tools, machinery and carts they used over the decades.

For those afraid of getting lost so far underground, don’t worry! It is not possible to visit the museum without a guide. Be sure to ask for someone who speaks English or you will miss all the explanations that accompany the exhibits, as well as the background of the mine and the lifestyle of the miners.

The Massa Marittima Mining Museum is a fantastic museum and definitely worth a visit, especially if you are interested in mining history or anything underground…as my husband is! It’s also great fun for the kids.