Les Dalles Mine

Les Dalles Mine sits in the heart of Mibladen, a small town roughly 25 km northeast of Midelt in Morocco's Drâa-Tafilalet Region. Nestled within the Middle Atlas Mountains, this location offers a rugged, mountainous backdrop that adds to its allure for mineral enthusiasts. Midelt, a nearby hub, is famous for its mining history and serves as a gateway to the region. Another notable nearby locality is Aouli, about 25 km north of Midelt, known for its lead and zinc mines, making it a must-visit for those exploring the area.

This mine is a treasure trove for collectors, particularly known for its cerussite, which features translucent yellow stepped crystals that fluoresce under UV light, adding a mesmerizing glow to any collection. Barite, often found alongside cerussite, provides a striking contrast with its pink and yellow blades, while galena, the primary lead ore, forms the base from which cerussite develops through oxidation. These minerals, especially the cerussite, are uncommon and highly sought after for their unique occurrences and aesthetic appeal.

The mine is embedded in Lower Jurassic limestones and dolomites, creating a stratiform deposit where minerals are layered within the rock. Research suggests that hydrothermal fluids played a key role, depositing galena and barite deep within these host rocks. Over time, exposure to oxygen and water led to the oxidation of galena, forming the stunning cerussite crystals near the surface, a process that highlights the dynamic geological history of the region.

Mining at Les Dalles Mine began in the 1920s, driven by French companies that operated extensively until 1949, with over 600 shafts worked across the Mibladen district. The mine itself is the second largest underground system in the area, utilizing traditional methods like room and pillar mining. While large-scale operations likely ceased by the 1980s, it seems the mine is now primarily visited by collectors and enthusiasts, with evidence suggesting it's no longer actively mined but remains accessible for exploration.

The region around Les Dalles Mine is steeped in Berber culture, with locals maintaining traditional customs that reflect their deep connection to the land. The mine has been a vital part of the local economy, drawing mineral enthusiasts from around the globe and fostering a community centered on this rich resource. While no specific famous events or figures are directly tied to Mibladen, its fame in the mineral world connects it to a global network of collectors and researchers.

Midelt, and by extension Mibladen, experiences a cold desert climate (BWk), with hot, dry summers reaching up to 32.6°C (90.7°F) in July and cold winters dipping below -10°C, with occasional snowfall. This climate shapes a unique ecology adapted to arid conditions and cold snaps, featuring vegetation and wildlife resilient to such extremes. The limestone and dolomite landscape may also include karstic features, adding an unexpected layer of geological interest for visitors.