The activity started in 1852 and ceased in 1968.
The Gallery, named after the Marquis Viceroy of the Kingdom of Sardinia, is excavated at +174 meters above sea level and connects the Vittorio Emanuele and Sella shafts.
It is the mining gallery that most vividly brings to life the miner’s experience. Very interesting are the winch room, the reconstructions of the containment systems for landslide zones, the safety systems and lift safeguards for descent and ascent, and the reconstruction of work methods for preparing explosive systems to break the rock.
The Vittorio Emanuele Shaft, excavated in 1863, reached -100 meters below sea level; it was used for the descent and ascent of miners and for retrieving the lead ore extracted in the 80 km of tunnels of the Monteponi Mine.
The Sella Shaft, excavated in 1874, housed the large steam pumps that “sucked” underground waters, ensuring protection against water hazards in the galleries.
Access is on foot. Visit duration 1 to 1.5 hours
Information about Monteponi Mine – Villamarina Gallery
Strada Statale 126,
09016 Iglesias (Carbonia-Iglesias)
0781491300
www.igeaminiere.it
Source: MIBACT
