The Mining Park La Union covers an area of 50,000 square metres in the Sierra Minera (Mining Mountain Range). The Romans were responsible for opening the first mines here after they discovered the many minerals hidden underground.
These minerals (mainly lead and zinc) were then transported all over the Mediterranean via the Port of Portman.
At the beginning of the 20th century, La Union was a busy mining town, with some 40,000 inhabitants. However, after the First World War, the mines fell into recession as the workers grew tired of the harsh conditions and poor pay and they left the area to seek their fortune further away. New technology meant that the mines could operate again some years later, but unfortunately the mines were finally closed in 1991. It is still possible to see the chimneys rising from the hillsides, and the area now has the category of Historical Site.
Visitors are very welcome to learn the process of the mining industry from the 19th century, visit an actual underground mine of around 4,000 square metres and see how the old miners lived and worked.
Access to the Mining Park of La Union is located behind the Old Market Hall and over the railway line. Here you can park your car and enter the site.
Tickets are €11 for adults and €8,25 for children. To find out more call 902 520 014 or visit the website Parqueminerodelaunion.es