Traces of coal: the story of the Kočevje mine
Discover the underground heritage that shaped Kočevje
Beneath the surface of Lake Kočevje lies a story of people, work, and community that lasted more than 170 years. The brown coal mine, which operated from 1803 to 1978, was one of the key factors in the economic development of Kočevje and its wider area. The mine was not only a place of work, but also a place of life, laughter, friendship, and community challenges. During this time, it shaped the lives of many families, transformed the landscape, and left traces that can still be felt today.
The exhibition Traces of Coal takes visitors into the world of underground tunnels, where work was hard but intertwined with strong camaraderie. Through photographs, documents, work tools, mine tunnel plans, and miners' personal stories, the exhibition reveals how mining influenced everyday life, social changes, and the development of Kočevje as a town.
At the Traces of Coal exhibition, you will be able to:
• step into the shoes of miners who bravely worked in the darkness deep underground and learn how they dealt with dangers such as methane, water ingress, and heavy tools,
• discover the secrets of miners' steam engines, locomotives, and excavators that overcame daily challenges,
• meet the horses and rats that helped miners or brought them entertainment,
• learn how miners lived, washed, ate, socialized, and created their own culture and language,
• discover how the mine shaped Kočevje, from mining barracks to canteens, kindergartens, sports fields, and even a mining orchestra,
• see how Lake Kočevje was created, which is now a popular destination for walking, swimming, stand-up paddleboarding, and bird watching.
The exhibition is not just a reminder of the past – it is a tribute to the people who, through their work, courage, and perseverance, left an indelible mark on the identity of Kočevje. It is suitable for independent or guided tours for groups, individuals, and families.
Reasons to visit:
• learn about the adventurous life of miners,
• see unique objects and machines,
• explore historical secrets,
• after the tour, take a walk around Lake Kočevje, which was created from a former mine.
What does this area look like today?
Take a walk to Lake Kočevje and see how nature has reclaimed this area. Where once there was the clanging of pickaxes and mining carts, today you can hear the singing of numerous birds, as the Kočevsko Lake area is a nesting ground for many species of birds, 15 of which are listed on the Red List of endangered nesting birds in Slovenia. The area is also a popular spot for walks and, in the summer months, numerous sports activities on and around the water.
Experience a story of work, pride, and solidarity – the mining heart of Kočevje.
Come and walk in the footsteps of coal and discover the heritage hidden beneath the ground in Kočevje.
Contact and information:
Pokrajinski muzej Kočevje
Prešernova ulica 11
1330 Kočevje
Opening hours:
Mon–Fri 7:00 a.m.–3:00 p.m., Sat 10:00 a.m.–1:00 p.m., outside opening hours by prior arrangement