Abandoned Mines in Lombardy: tourism potential and conservation plans

Abandoned mines in Lombardy: tourism and conservation prospects

A recent regional meeting focused on creating a network of tourist mines in Lombardy, addressing strategies, funding and projects to repurpose abandoned mining sites as cultural and scientific destinations. Stakeholders emphasized the need for coordinated action among authorities, specialists and operators to ensure safe and sustainable reuse.

Key outcomes

Discussions covered site inventories, the establishment of geomining parks and guidelines for site management. Regional funds have been allocated to support restoration works, aiming to preserve local heritage and develop experiential tourism linked to industrial archaeology.

Funding and legal framework

The Region has earmarked substantial funds—over €7 million—for recovery projects. The legal framework includes regional legislation from 2009, a 2021 programme for the recovery of mining heritage and an updated regional regulation from 2024, which together provide criteria for site surveys, visitor access and integration with tourism activities.

Trends and figures

Available indicators show growing interest in industrial archaeology: regional tourism recorded around 45 million presences in recent years, with an international share exceeding 60%. Some adapted mining sites report annual visitor increases between 10% and 20%.

Active sites and planned openings

Lombardy already counts several accessible sites and scheduled projects. Rehabilitated examples demonstrate the potential to attract both domestic and international visitors through guided tours and educational programs.

• Brescia province: Marzoli (Pezzaze), Tassara – S. Aloisio (Collio), Petassa Costa (Malonno), Quattro Ossi (Pisogne).
• Bergamo province: Paglio-Pignolino (Dossena), Monte Vaccareggio (Dossena), Dossena sites reopened after restoration.
• Lecco province: Cortabbio (Primaluna), Pian dei Resinelli (Abbadia Lariana).
• Sondrio province: Bagnada mine (Lanzada) – reopening expected summer 2026.
• Varese province: Piodelle mine (Besano) – planned opening December 2026.
• Other sites noted: Gaffiona (Schilpario), Costa Jels (Gorno), Caravino Casletto Costa Alta (Valtorta), Foghera (Oneta).

Visitor profile and offers

Visitors typically include families, school groups, hikers and slow-travel enthusiasts; the share of foreign visitors is increasing, notably from Northern Europe, Germany, Switzerland and France. Offerings generally include underground guided tours, educational workshops and itineraries linked to landscape and local identity.

Practical advice

If you plan to visit an abandoned mine, consider the following:

• check opening times and current access rules with site managers or official sources;
• join guided visits for safety and to gain full historical and scientific insight;
• wear appropriate clothing for indoor galleries or outdoor trails;
• contact facilities in advance for school programs or group bookings.

Turning abandoned mines into cultural and scientific attractions can broaden Lombardy's tourism offer, supporting education, research and local development.