Septemvri Mine

Madan Municipality, Smolyan Province, Bulgaria

рудник Септември, Маданско рудно поле, Родопи планина, Смолянска област, България

Key Information

Do not enter mining areas without proper authorization.

The Septemvri Mine is in Madan, Smolyan Province, Bulgaria, within the Rhodope Mountains, known for scenic beauty and mineral deposits.
It produces galena, sphalerite, chalcopyrite, and rare minerals like Manganilvaite, attracting collectors.
The mine's geology features metamorphic rocks with hydrothermal lead-zinc deposits from 30 million years ago.
Mining started in the 5th century BC, was extensive in recent decades, but now serves as a museum and show mine.
Madan has a mix of Bulgarian and Pomak cultures, with local cuisine featuring beans and maize, and religious sites like churches and mosques.
The climate is temperate, with diverse flora and fauna, including vultures and bears, enhancing the region's ecological richness.

Geographic Location

The Septemvri Mine is located in Madan, a town in Smolyan Province, southern Bulgaria, nestled within the Rhodope Mountains. This mountain range, part of the Balkan Peninsula, is known for its scenic beauty and rich natural resources, making it a historically significant area for mining activities.

Minerals Produced

The mine is part of the Madan ore field, renowned for lead and zinc deposits. Key minerals include galena (lead sulfide), sphalerite (zinc sulfide), chalcopyrite (copper iron sulfide), and pyrite (iron sulfide). It also yields rare minerals like Clino-ferro-suenoite, Clino-suenoite, Manganilvaite (a type locality), and Pearceite, which are highly sought after by mineral collectors for their unique crystal habits and associations.

Mining History and Geological Structure

Mining in Madan began in the 5th century BC by the Thracians, with various groups like Romans and Germans exploiting the deposits over centuries. In modern times, it was extensively mined, producing significant lead and zinc, especially in the last 50 years. The Septemvri Mine, previously Deveti Septemvri Mine until 1989, now operates as a museum and show mine. Geologically, it features a metamorphic gneiss-amphibolite core complex with marble horizons, with hydrothermal lead-zinc mineralization from about 30 million years ago, found in sulphide veins and fault zones.

Local Culture and Characteristics

Madan has a diverse cultural background, with Bulgarian and Pomak communities. Its culture is deeply tied to mining, reflected in local traditions and a museum showcasing this heritage. The local cuisine features dishes made from locally grown beans, potatoes, and maize, known for their taste. Religious sites include the “St. George Victorious” church and several mosques, highlighting cultural coexistence.

Climate and Ecology