History
The area around Leszczyna in the northeastern part of the Kaczawskie Foothills is known for its long mining traditions. From a geological point of view, the most interesting rocks are those from the Permian period, starting with the red sandstones and conglomerates of the Rotliegendes, overlain by the limestones and marls of the Zechstein, upon which sandstones and clay shales are found.
The most significant interest was in the marls which were found to contain copper ore. Organized copper ore mining began in the late 16th century, and it was intermittently pursued in later centuries. In the second half of the 19th century, stone mining also developed in the area, mainly extracting sandstone and limestone, which were then processed in local lime kilns. Just before World War II, construction began on a new deep mine to the west of the village. Mining operations began in 1939 and continued until the end of the war, after which the mine was submerged. It resumed operations as the “Lena” mine in 1950 and operated until 1974.
Open-Air Mining and Metallurgy Museum and walking path
The mining and metallurgical history is commemorated by the Mining and Metallurgy Open-Air Museum, with its main feature being the reconstructed twin furnace, composed of two towers. Its current shape dates back to 1872. In the vicinity, there is an exhibition room – the Chamber of Mining Traditions. At the skansen, there are Dymarki Kaczawskie – an event that recalls the traditions of smelting ore. The educational path “Synklina Leszczyna” starts here, leading through the area of the former “Ciche Szczęście” mine. Along this path, there are 18 designated informational points with descriptions.
Description: Piotr Migoń