Berta quarry and mine

The Berta quarry and mine lies in the northeastern part of Spain, in Catalonia, specifically between the towns of Sant Cugat del Vallès and El Papiol, within the Barcelona province. Its coordinates are 41° 27' 33'' N, 2° 0' 57'' E, placing it near several nearby towns such as Castellbisbal, Sant Andreu de la Barca, Rubí, Pallejà, and Molins de Rei, each within a few kilometers. This location offers a blend of urban proximity to Barcelona and access to natural landscapes, making it an intriguing spot for mineral enthusiasts.

The quarry is particularly noted for its fluorite, which forms stunning octahedral crystals, often with vibrant colors. Other minerals include galena, sphalerite, pyrite, and secondary minerals like azurite and malachite, adding to its appeal for collectors. The diversity and quality of these minerals, especially the fluorite, make it a significant site for those studying mineralogy.

The bedrock consists of altered Hercynian granodiorite, an igneous rock, intersected by hydrothermal veins rich in fluorine, lead, and zinc. These veins formed during two distinct periods: the Triassic-Jurassic transition (around 200 million years ago) and the Miocene (23 to 5 million years ago). This complex geological history has resulted in a rich variety of minerals, each with unique formation stories.

Historically, the quarry featured ancient mining galleries following metal-rich veins, indicating early extraction of lead and zinc. More recently, it served as a crushed granodiorite aggregate plant, ceasing operations in 2003. Currently, there are plans to convert the site into an urban and industrial waste deposit, marking a shift from mineral extraction to environmental management.

The surrounding area is rich in culture, with Sant Cugat del Vallès boasting the historic Monestir de Sant Cugat, a medieval monastery, and a vibrant pedestrian shopping area. El Papiol features a castle and is part of the Parc de Collserola, known for its natural beauty. These elements provide a fascinating backdrop for visitors, blending history with modern suburban life.

The region enjoys a Mediterranean climate, with hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters, and annual rainfall of about 658 mm. The quarry is near the Parc de Collserola, a natural park with diverse flora and fauna. While the climate doesn't directly influence mineral formation, it affects weathering and exposure, enhancing the site's dynamic nature.