Adami Mine No. 2
Plaka Mines, Plaka, Lavrion mining district, Lavreotiki, East Attica, Attica, Greece
Ορυχείο Αδάμι 2, Πλάκα, Λαύριο, Αττική, Ελλάδα
Key Information
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Adami Mine No. 2 is located in Plaka, Lavreotiki, East Attica, Greece, about 40 km southeast of Athens, near ancient sites like the Theatre of Thorikos.
It hosts 128 minerals, including acanthite, adamite, and wulfenite, with a rich history of silver and lead extraction.
The geological structure involves Late Miocene granodioritic bodies, mainly in marbles, contributing to diverse mineralization.
Mining started in ancient times (6th–4th centuries BCE) and was reactivated from 1864 to 1978; the mine is now abandoned.
Plaka is a small village with a mining heritage, near the sea, with a Mediterranean climate of hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters.
The ecology may include unique flora adapted to metal-rich soils from historical mining.
Geographic Location
Adami Mine No. 2 sits in Plaka, a quaint village in the Lavreotiki region of East Attica, Greece, roughly 40 kilometers southeast of Athens at the southeastern tip of the Attica Peninsula. This area is steeped in history, with nearby ancient sites like the Theatre of Thorikos adding to its allure. Plaka, with about 558 residents, offers a peaceful setting for mineral enthusiasts, and its proximity to Rimpari and Néo Panórama makes it a hub for exploring the region's mining legacy.
Minerals Produced
This mine is a treasure trove for mineral collectors, boasting 128 valid minerals. Standouts include acanthite (Ag₂S), adamite (Zn₂(AsO₄)(OH)), and wulfenite (Pb(MoO₄)), reflecting the Lavrion district's fame for silver and lead. The diversity here, detailed on Mindat, ensures there's always something unique to discover, from common ores to rare specimens.
Geological Structure
The geological makeup is fascinating, tied to Late Miocene granodioritic bodies, with ore deposits primarily in marbles. This setting supports various mineralization types, such as porphyry and skarn, as outlined in geological surveys, making it a complex and rich area for study.
Mining History
Mining here dates back to ancient times, with significant silver extraction from the 6th to 4th centuries BCE, fueling Athens' wealth. Modern operations, from 1864 to 1978, focused on lead, likely including Adami Mine No. 2, which is now abandoned, offering a glimpse into historical mining practices as noted on Wikipedia.
Local Culture and Characteristics
Plaka is a small village with deep ties to its mining past, potentially influencing local traditions. Its coastal location suggests a blend of mining and maritime culture, with nearby ancient sites like the Theatre of Thorikos enhancing its historical charm, creating a unique cultural tapestry for visitors.
Climate and Ecology
The region enjoys a Mediterranean climate, with hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters, ideal for exploration. The ecology, potentially featuring flora adapted to metal-rich soils from historical mining, adds an unexpected layer of interest for nature-loving mineral enthusiasts, as suggested by regional studies.