📝 Detailed information
🏢 About the local organisation
You will participate in the restoration of a site that is a striking example of a remarkably well conserved piece of historical and geological heritage, and that's one of the most important mines in the Alps. The Vallauria mine was exploited for its galena (silver-bearing lead), and blend (zinc based mineral) from the Middle Ages until 1930. Since 2011, volunteers have been reviving the accessibility to this site, both above and belowground. And since 2009, archaeological digs have also been taking place at the site. Your goal with this project will be to help open this medieval mine to the public.
💼 What the programme involves
Under the supervision of a mining archaeologist, you'll complete the last remaining work to be done in order to open the circuit to the public. The underground visitor trail must be clean, comfortable and secure. You will work to stabilize and level of the floor of the mine, evacuate stone blocks, construct low walls and a dry-stone staircase, and showcase the outcropping ledge of the medieval mine.
🏠 Accommodation on site
You will be sharing a room with 2/3 other volunteers. Bathrooms are also shared. Meals are prepared by our kitchen staff, and you'll be asked to lend a hand with the preparation of some food, tidying the dining area, and washing the dishes.
📍 About the location
2 hours from Nice by train. The organisation “Neige et Merveilles” is located at an altitude of 1.500 metres in an isolated mountainous area, 10 km from the closest village of Tende, and 50 km from Vintimille (Italy).