Cavnic Mine

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Cavnic, Maramureș County, Romania

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Key Information

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  • Cavnic Mine is located in Maramureș County, Romania, about 26 km east of Baia Mare, in the Carpathian Mountains.

  • It is known for minerals like rhodochrosite, gold, silver, copper, lead, and zinc, with rhodochrosite being a type locality.

  • The mine has a long history since 1336, with significant expansion during the communist era, but it seems likely that it is no longer operational.

  • The area has a continental climate with cold winters and warm summers, and is rich in forested ecosystems.

Geographic Location

Cavnic Mine is nestled in the town of Cavnic, Maramureș County, in northwest Romania, approximately 26 km east of Baia Mare. This location places it within the scenic Carpathian Mountains, at altitudes ranging from 500 to 1,050 meters, offering a picturesque setting for mineral enthusiasts.

Minerals Produced

The mine is famous for its polymetallic reserves, including gold, silver, copper, lead, and zinc. For collectors, the highlight is rhodochrosite, a pink manganese carbonate mineral and a type locality, meaning it was first described here. Other notable minerals include aragonite, baryte, quartz, and calcite, making it a diverse hunting ground for unique specimens.

Mining History

Mining at Cavnic began in 1336, with a history marked by periods of activity and closure. It saw significant expansion during the communist era under Ceausescu, but current information suggests it is likely no longer operational, adding a historical rather than active mining allure.

Local Culture and Climate

Cavnic's culture is a blend of Romanian and Hungarian influences, highlighted by the Tatar obelisk commemorating the last invasion in 1717. The climate is continental, with cold winters and warm summers, ideal for exploring the surrounding forested Carpathian landscapes, home to protected species.

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