Largest silver mine in the world. Travel. Poland is known for its rich history, delicious food, and beautiful landscapes. But not everyone knows that it also hides real treasures underground. In Lower Silesia, there is a mine that plays an important role not only in Poland but also around the world. Experts from different countries admire it as one of the biggest successes of mining engineering. This mine is proof that Poland has great potential in this area.
The World’s Biggest Silver Mine
The Rudna Mine, located near the town of Polkowice in Lower Silesia, is the largest silver mine in the world. It is owned by KGHM Polska Miedź SA and produces large amounts of silver and copper every year. Thanks to this, Poland is one of the top silver-producing countries in the world.
The silver and copper are found in the same rocks, so the mine has to use advanced machines and modern technology to get them out safely. This makes Rudna one of the most modern mines in the world.
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How Much Silver Is Produced?
Each year, the Rudna mine produces over 1,300 tons of silver – about 14% of all silver mined in the world. Because of this, Poland stands alongside countries like Mexico and Peru in the rankings of top silver producers. Silver from Rudna is used in many areas: electronics, medicine, chemistry, and jewellery. It’s also important for green technologies, like solar panels and batteries.
Modern and Eco-Friendly
The company that runs the mine, KGHM, focuses on innovation and protecting the environment. They use high-tech tools to control safety and reduce pollution. They also support research that helps use natural resources in a better, greener way.
Even though the Rudna mine is not open to tourists, Lower Silesia has other great places to visit related to mining. You can explore old mines in Złoty Stok or see the Historic Silver Mine in Tarnowskie Góry, which is part of the UNESCO World Heritage.