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The mining of precious metals (gold and silver) have been practiced around Telkibánya in the Zemplén since the 13th century as a result of volcanic activities that took place millions of years ago, which led to the formation of different mineral resources. Telkibánya was mentioned as a royal mining settlement back in 1341. It enjoyed its first heyday in the time of the Anjou kings, then in the 16th century and finally in the second half of the 18th century during the reign of Maria Theresa. We can still find lots of signs and monuments of mining near the settlement. The centre of gold mining is located in the neighbourhood of Gyepű Hill and Kánya Hill, stretching all the way to Fehér Hill, where we can find the countless holes and subsequent pits. They are scattered in a large area and two of them, the Theresa and Maria adits, can be visited and can be approached along the educational trail called the Golden Diggers' Way.

You can find the remains of several mines in the Tokaj Mountains, such as the Megyer Hill mine, where work was performed from the 15th century to the early 20th century, and today it is one of the most visited tourist attractions. The mine was filled with rainwater over the centuries, creating a mountain lake, offering an amazing view surrounded by the huge stone walls. If you wish to become more absorbed in the diversity of stones, it is also worth visiting Csurgókút quarry in the Tokaj Mountains, where you can find rocks such as hematite, quartz or opal. If you would like to set off on your discovery trip with some guidance, you can get familiar with wonderful places and stories about and beyond the stones in the Zemplén with the help of József Bartók or, as everyone knows him, Telkimanó.

Noble land, noble metals

Living stories