Exploring the abandoned mines of Lavrion is a very unique activity which should not be missed! Walking through the dark and gloomy abandoned tunnels and shafts that have existed for thousands of years can be terrifying for some, but for others it spikes their andrenaline levels! Just 50km from the center of Athens and very near to the ancient temple of Poseidon in Sounio, this activity is great for those who are curious and intrigued to learn about the very important history of the mines of Greece that reach a total of about 300km of tunnels and shafts!
The earliest recordings of mining activities in the Lavrion district are from the end of the neolithic period, about 3200 BC. Mining in Lavrio became popular in the late 6th century BC and in the 5th century BC the mines was an important source of revenue for the Athenians. The mines were eventually abandoned in the 1st century BC and were brough re-activated in 1864 by French and Greek companies. The most famous being the French Mining Company of Lavrion which closed permanently in 1989. The main ores mines from lavrio were lead, silver, zinc and copper.
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