Guided tours of the Copper Mine Museum | Montecatini Val di Cecina

The archaeological site of the Caporciano Copper Mine is on the outskirts of the village of Montecatini Val di Cecina, in a stunning location. In operation until 1907, the site was the largest copper mine in Europe during the 19th century and gave its name to one of the major industries of the 20th century: Montecatini S.p.A., which later became Montedison, a historic milestone in the field of copper mining.

Of the entire mining complex, which dates back to Etruscan times, parts of the nineteenth-century tunnels are now open to visitors (the network originally extended for around 35 km to a depth of 315 m), as well as the Pozzo Alfredo tower with its goods lift ‘suspended above visitors’ heads’, the former offices, the chemical analysis laboratory and the ore washing plants.

Guided tours of the Mining Park

The tour includes Pozzo Alfredo, the tunnel and the former workshops. The route presents no particular difficulties. Suitable for all adults and children aged 4 and over. Closed-toe shoes must be worn, and visitors should bring something to cover up in the tunnel. There are stairs along the route. Small dogs must be carried.

Guided tour of the Mining Park and the Descent

Please note: the descent takes you down to the fourth level via a flight of steps, to a depth of approximately 100 metres. The route is not accessible to people with reduced mobility or those unable to move independently; it is accessible to children aged 12 and over if accompanied by at least one adult. Hiking boots must be worn and visitors should bring something to keep warm. Pets are not permitted. The guided tour of the descent is for a minimum of 2 people and a maximum of 8 people.

The archaeological site of the Copper Mine lies on the outskirts of Montecatini Val di Cecina in a splendid location. In operation until 1907, the area was the largest copper mine in Europe in the 19th century and gave its name to one of the major industries of the 20th century: Montecatini S.p.A., which later became Montedison, a historic milestone in the field of copper extraction. Of the entire mining complex, which dates back to Etruscan times, parts of the 19th-century tunnels can be visited today (the network originally extended for about 35 kilometres to a depth of 315 metres), as well as the Pozzo Alfredo tower with its lift “suspended above visitors” heads’, the former offices and chemical analysis laboratory, and the washing facilities