The Marzoli Mine and Museum The mining world and the art of ironworking
Closed in 1972 and reopened in 1999, this exciting route into the depths of the mountain deserves the distinction of opening our tour of the valley. It is part of the "Via del Ferro e delle Miniere" itinerary. Before entering the Mine, visitors are shown a video to help introduce them to the geological environment of mining life, through evocative images and sounds that will enrich their sensory experience. Equipped with safety helmets, they will then be escorted into the historical atmosphere of the mine and along ancient, long-abandoned tunnels, aboard a characteristic yellow train. Here, expert guides will illustrate the features of the mining site and explain mineral-excavating methods and the harsh working conditions miners were forced to endure. Glimpses of dark shapes in the side tunnels will make the trip even more evocative.Our next step is to visit the museum dedicated to mining and ironworking, another stop on the "Via del Ferro e delle Minere" itinerary of Val Trompia's museum network. Housed in a building that was once reserved for production activities and mine employees, the museum consists of two sections: one dedicated to detailing the historical and scientific realities of the local mining industry, the other to the iron works of sculptor Vittorio Piotti (1935-2000). (Ph: panorama.it)