Llumeres Mines

The Llumeres Mines are one of the most significant industrial heritage sites in the municipality of Gozón. The mine was dedicated to the extraction of high-grade iron ore, taking advantage of the outcrops on the coastal cliffs. The site preserves numerous remnants of the mining activity that took place between the late 19th century and the mid-20th century.

The complex is spread out between the hillside and the coastline, preserving remnants of galleries, inclined planes, loading docks, workers’ housing, workshops, and other infrastructure related to the mining process. Its location by the sea allowed for the direct shipment of ore via facilities built along the coast.

Highlights

• Main inclined conveyor for transporting ore.
• Operations area.
• Main mine shaft and other mine tunnels.
• Machine room.
• Marine cargo ship.
• Docks and piers.
• Workers’ housing.
• Offices and warehouses.
• Remains of workshops and industrial infrastructure.

Interesting facts

• The ore mined in Llumeres was considered to be of high quality because of its high iron content.
• The mine took advantage of its proximity to the sea to facilitate the transport and shipment of the ore.
• Before 1940, the mines consisted of three separate operations and numerous auxiliary facilities.
• Remains of buildings such as the powerhouse, the engineer’s house, offices, workshops, and workers’ housing are still preserved.
• The complex is one of the most important examples of iron mining on the Asturian coast.