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12. Narcao – Rosas Mine

Located in the astonishing Sulcis region of southwestern Sardinia, the Rosas mining site in Narcao offers a fascinating journey into the island’s industrial past. Discovered in the early 19th century, the mine became a crucial center for the extraction of lead and silver, attracting workers and their families, thereby creating a lively community. For over a century, Rosas was both a workplace and a proper village where daily life revolved around mining activities. After its closure in the late 20th century, the site was carefully restored and turned into a place where history can be experienced firsthand. 

Today, Rosas is not only an open-air museum surrounded by natural landscape but also home to a rich indoor museum experience. Visitors can enjoy the historical and geo-mineralogical collection of the museum, where items are displayed alongside interactive touch screens explaining how ores are formed and processed. The exhibits also highlight the daily life of miners, the main discoveries made at Rosas such as the rosasite and the key historical stages of the site. Furthermore, the staff offers engaging educational programs. On the upper floor, visitors can see the original washery installations, which are not only preserved, but can also be seen in operation during the visit, offering a unique glimpse into past ore-processing techniques. 

The visit continues outdoors, among historic buildings such as the postal office, scenic paths, and even underground tunnels, creating a rich and engaging expereince that combines culture and nature. 

Superlatives:

At Rosas site, visitors can experience one of the few historic mining plants in Europe that can still come to life during visits, with orignial machinery set in motion to recreate the fascinating process of ore treatment.

Useful information:

Opening days and hours: from Wednesday to Sunday, 8 a.m./ 3 p.m. Monday and Tuesday by reservation. Due to the traits of this heritage site, visits can only take place through guided tours 

Recommended visit duration:  70/80 minutes
Accessibility for people with disabilities:  yes. for details see website.
Facilities for children: yes
Picnic area: yes
Gift shop: yes

Email: museorosasnarcao@gmail.com
Phone: +39 0781 1888317  +39 339 1676863
Website: https://museorosasnarcao.it
Address: Strada Località Rosas, 09010 Narcao
Geolocation: 39.20275387576555, 8.719120242516437