Show mine

The show mine

is located in the area of the Jonsdorf millstone quarries in the Zittau Mountains, formerly known as the Lusatian Ridge. It is the German part of the Lusatian Mountains stretching along the Saxon-Bohemian border in the extreme south-east of Saxony. It has a maximum height of 792.6 m above sea level (Lausche), is part of the Sudeten mountain range and is the smallest (and most beautiful) mountain range in Germany.

The spa town of Jonsdorf is located in the middle of the Zittau Mountains, which consist of sandstone cliffs and volcanic igneous rock. The spa town was and still is a very popular vacation paradise.

Jonsdorf millstone quarries

The Jonsdorf millstone quarries are located to the south of the village of Jonsdorf. They cover an area of around 35 hectares. There are 4 quarries, which were developed over the course of time and operated until 1918. In 1560, the local magistrate Hieronymus Richter and his two sons discovered the special usefulness of Jonsdorf sandstone for millstones. In 1580, the quarrying and production of millstones began. For over 300 years, the fritted sandstone was quarried for the production of millstones. At times, up to 90 workers were employed in the quarry.

Jonsdorf millstones were in great demand and were exported as far as Russia and England. Complete and ready-to-use millstones were produced, from splitting in the rock face to finished shipping. The production of millstones was discontinued in 1918.

From quarry to show mine

The millstone quarries are a geologically very valuable area. A variety of volcanic features can be seen here.

These special features only came to light when the quarries were opened up. For example, with a bit of luck you can discover one or two fossil impressions. Of course, the columnar basalt is also interesting (e.g. at the Organ Rocks) and much more.

In the 1950s, a nature trail was created by the Friends of Nature and Local History. From 1990, the quarries were restored and made accessible for hikes. In 2002, the “Schwarzes Loch” quarry was turned into a show mine to document the quarrying of millstones with exhibits.

Guided tours of the show mine

The show mine is not open to the public due to mining regulations. A visit is possible during the guided hikes. The duration of the hike with nature trail, show mine and Steenbruchschmiede is 3 hours.

Prices for guided tours
Adults aged 18 and over – € 7.50
Children (6 to 14 years) – € 2.00

Guided tours take place from May 1st to October 31st on the following days:

Wednesdays 14:00 from the clubhouse / observatory
Saturdays 14:00 from the clubhouse / observatory

It is not necessary to book in advance. Guided tours take place when 5 adult participants come together.

Groups with more than 20 people:

Pre-registration by telephone is requested.

Phone: 0175 4157635

The show mine can also be hired for cozy group events.

For more information, please call: 0175 4157635