Zeche Zollverein, Germany

The city of Essen also has a deserted coal mine that enjoys attention of tourists. The former coal mine is enlisted in the number of valuable industrial sites in the world and is under UNESCO protection; some of its quarries were converted into an interesting museum dedicated to the history of the mining industry. Mining has begun there in 1834; the famous businessman, Johann Franz Haniel, was a founder of the facility.

Coal mining has been conducted in the mines until 1986, until the field was completely exhausted. However, it was decided not to close it. Currently, extensive underground tunnels and old factories house interesting thematic museums, and desert tunnels attract curious tourists no less than the halls with unique exhibits.

After admiring priceless artifacts in museums, it’s worth to have a stroll through the deserted underground; just the simple descent via worn metal ladders makes adrenaline go rushing. Many mysterious stories are associated with Zeche Zollverein mines, as many industrialists have faced there with phenomenon of abnormal knocks. Tourists who visit these places often hear unexplained sounds. They are so distinct and realistic, that it seems that there is still active work in some areas of mines. Next - Staritsa catacombs