In the heart of the Murcia Region, La Unión stands as a silent witness to a fascinating industrial past. Known for its historic mining heritage, this town gives visitors the opportunity to step back in time through the Mining Route — a journey that uniquely combines culture, history, and nature.
A little history
La Unión was for centuries a centre of mining in Spain. From Roman times through to the late 20th century, the extraction of minerals such as iron, lead, and zinc shaped the life and landscape of this region. Although mining activity ceased in the 1990s, the scars on the land and the remnants of mining infrastructure tell stories of human effort, innovation, and transformation.
What to expect on the Mining Route
The Mining Route of La Unión invites you to explore the old mining landscapes, its iconic mountains stained with shades of red and orange, and the buildings that once drove this activity. It is both a cultural and a natural journey, ideal for those who want to learn while enjoying the outdoors.
1. Mina Agrupa Vicenta
The highlight of the route is a visit to Mina Agrupa Vicenta, a perfectly preserved underground mine that lets visitors descend into the depths of the earth. You will go down up to 80 metres below the surface to explore lit galleries and discover how miners worked in extreme conditions.
2. Museo Minero de La Unión (Mining Museum)
Before or after the route, do not miss a visit to the Mining Museum. This space houses tools, machinery, and photographs that illustrate the lives of miners and the evolution of extraction techniques over the years.
3. Landscapes of the Sierra Minera
The route also includes walks through the surrounding hills. You can take in landscapes shaped by mining activity — mountains of spoil heaps, chimneys, and old ventilation shafts. Some trails lead to viewpoints with spectacular views of the Mar Menor and the Mediterranean.
4. Open-air industrial heritage
Along the way, you will discover the remains of old facilities such as ore washeries, smelters, and storage tanks. Each structure is a reminder of human ingenuity and the impact this industry had on the region.
Practical tips for your visit:
• Comfortable footwear: The trail walks and underground visits require good shoes.
• Guided tours: Choose a local guide to learn historical details and interesting anecdotes.
• Sun protection and water: The Sierra Minera can be hot, especially in summer.
• Book ahead: Some activities, such as entry to Mina Agrupa Vicenta, require advance booking.
Beyond mining: the Festival del Cante de las Minas
La Unión is not only famous for its industrial past but also for its cultural richness. Every year in August, the International Festival del Cante de las Minas is held, honouring flamenco and the mining roots of the region. If you have the chance to visit during this event, do not miss it.
Why visit the Mining Route
The Mining Route of La Unión is more than a tourist trail; it is an experience that connects you with the past, invites reflection on the human impact on the environment, and shows the capacity of a community to preserve its history and turn it into a cultural legacy.
Immerse yourself in this adventure and discover a unique chapter in the history of Murcia. The Mining Route awaits to take you into the depths of the earth and of the past.