Áliva Mine
Camaleño, Cantabria, Spain
Minas de Manforas
Key Information
Do not enter mining areas without proper authorization.
The Álíva Mine is located in Camaleño, Cantabria, Spain, within the Picos de Europa National Park, known for its scenic beauty.
It is famous for transparent sphalerite crystals in colors like orange, red, and yellow, alongside other minerals such as calcite and dolomite.
The mine, now closed, was historically significant for zinc extraction, starting in the late 19th century and ceasing by 1989.
The area has a rich cultural heritage, including the Monastery of Santo Toribio de Liébana, and local specialties like "Quesucos de Liébana" cheese.
The climate is temperate oceanic, supporting diverse wildlife like brown bears and wolves in the surrounding national park.
Geographic Location
The Álíva Mine sits in Camaleño, a town in the Liébana region of Cantabria, northern Spain, within the Picos de Europa National Park. This park, part of the Cantabrian Mountains, is a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve renowned for its majestic landscapes and biodiversity. Nearby, the Andara mining district offers additional mineral exploration opportunities for enthusiasts.
Minerals Produced
The mine is world-famous for its transparent sphalerite crystals, displaying vibrant colors such as orange, red, yellow, and green, often called "caramel blende." Other minerals found include calcite, dolomite, fluorite, galena, goethite, hemimorphite, hydrozincite, malachite, smithsonite, and cinnabar (anecdotally). The sphalerite's gemmy quality makes it particularly prized by collectors.
Mining History
Mining at Álíva dates back to at least 1557 for lead, with major zinc extraction beginning in the late 19th century and continuing through the 20th century. It extracted about 600,000 tons of material with 13% zinc, using underground methods on six levels. The mine closed by 1989, with environmental restoration efforts ensuring its legacy, and it is no longer accessible.
Local Culture and Characteristics
Camaleño's history is marked by events like the Battle of Covadonga and the death of King Favila of Asturias. The Monastery of Santo Toribio de Liébana, a key pilgrimage site, holds a relic of the Cross of Christ. Local culture shines through specialties like "Quesucos de Liébana" cheese and orujo lebaniego liquor, with natural attractions like the Fuente Dé cable car enhancing visitor experiences.
Climate and Ecology
The region enjoys a temperate oceanic climate, with mild temperatures and significant rainfall, fostering lush vegetation. The Picos de Europa National Park hosts diverse wildlife, including brown bears, wolves, chamois, and various birds and butterflies, making it a haven for nature lovers.