Ore mines

A mechanical ore-washing plant was also established in the late nineteenth century near the Monteponi mining complex.

Iron ore has been mined on the banks of the Nervión River since the 15th century. The soil there is veined with galleries from the various iron ore mines, including San Luis. 

Since Roman times, the Aiako Harria massif in the Basque country has been tapped to extract minerals, including iron ores. Iron ore mining gained momentum in the mid-19th century.

Sardinia's soil is full of minerals, which was no different in the hills near the village of Gonnesa. In the mid-19th century, some entrepreneurs discovered zinc ore there.

Although the ruins of Sa Macchina Beccia resemble a fairytale castle from a distance, with their battlements, tower and round-arched windows, appearances are deceptive.