Esztramos Hill

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Bódvarákó, Edelény District, Borsod-Abaúj-Zemplén County, Hungary

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Key Information

Do not enter mining areas without proper authorization.

  • Esztramos Hill is in Bódvarákó, Hungary, part of the Aggtelek National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

  • It features minerals like azurite, barite, hematite, and calcite, with iron ore mining until the 1950s.

  • The hill is made of Triassic limestone, with hydrothermal mineral deposits, and has numerous caves.

  • Mining started in the 19th century and ended in the 1950s; the Rákóczi Cave is a notable attraction.

  • The area has a temperate climate, with diverse flora and fauna, including protected species like the Eurasian lynx.

  • Location and Significance

  • Esztramos Hill, located in Bódvarákó, Edelény District, Borsod-Abaúj-Zemplén County, Hungary, is nestled within the Aggtelek National Park. This park is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its exceptional karst landscape and cave systems, making it a significant destination for mineral enthusiasts.

  • Minerals and Geology

  • The hill is known for its rich mineral deposits, including azurite, barite, hematite, calcite, pyrite, chalcopyrite, malachite, and siderite. These minerals formed through hydrothermal processes within the Triassic limestone, specifically the Steinalmi Mészkő Formáció, which is light gray and crystalline. This geological setting has also led to the formation of numerous caves, enhancing the area's appeal.

  • Historical Context

  • Mining for iron ore began in the 19th century and continued until the 1950s, when the deposits were exhausted. This activity not only shaped the local economy but also led to the discovery of caves like the Rákóczi Cave, now a tourist attraction with unique mineral formations.

  • Cultural and Environmental Notes

  • Bódvarákó's culture is tied to the national park and its mining history, with the Rákóczi Cave offering a glimpse into the area's geological wonders. The region enjoys a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, and the park is home to diverse flora and fauna, including protected species like the fire salamander and Eurasian lynx, adding an unexpected ecological dimension for visitors.

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