Parys Mountain
The remains of centuries of copper mining appear like an alien landscape.
Richard Pritchard (Creative Commons)
Appearing like an alien landscape, the Parys Mountain in Wales is actually an open copper mine that dates back to the Bronze Age.
The site was most active in the late 18th century, and at that time for the British was the main source of copper. The mine even played a part in Nelson’s Battle of Trafalgar victory, where the British ships had an advantage with their hulls protected with copper from the Parys Mountain.
Today there is a trail around the now defunct mine, and tours of the mine itself can be arranged through the Parys Underground Group. The soil in the area is still very contaminated from the years of industrial activity, so few plants grow on the reddish dirt.
Community Contributors
Added by
Edited by
Published
July 25, 2013
Edit this listing
In partnership with KAYAK
Plan Your Trip
Stay in Touch!
Follow us on social media to add even more wonder to your day.
Follow us on Twitter
Like us on Facebook
Follow Us on Instagram
No Thanks
Visit AtlasObscura.com
No purchase necessary. Winner will be selected at random on 10/01/2023. Offer available only in the U.S. (including Puerto Rico). Offer subject to change without notice. See contest rules for full details.
Follow us on Twitter to get the latest on the world's hidden wonders.
Like us on Facebook to get the latest on the world's hidden wonders.
Follow us on Twitter Like us on Facebook