For anyone remotely interested in industrial archeology or geology the Rammelsberg mine is a must-see. When you approach the site and see the array of processing buildings stretching up the mountainside it is clear this is no ordinary mine relic. It dates from the 10th century and worked with few interruptions until 1988. Many of the early features survived and it is fortunate that closure took place when the social value of such places was recognised so that everything has been preserved even the miners' clothing, each man's hanging from its own ceiling hook just as it did the day it closed.

There are a variety of tours both above and below ground all fascinating although English-speaking guides are not readily arranged nor is the detail of English-language written material really adequate. Nevertheless the language barrier does not prevent awe at such things as three enormous wooden water wheels (underground !) providing both power and drainage.

Together with the nearby town of Goslar, whose wealth was largely dependent on the mine,and walking trails based on above ground features of mining this forms an extraordinarily complete experience of an industry and its effects. Allow a whole day for a visit!