Cornwall and West Devon Mining Landscape
Unesco World Heritage

Location on Map

The Cornwall and West Devon Mining Landscape

The Cornwall and West Devon Mining Landscape is a UNESCO World Heritage site located in the counties of Cornwall and Devon in the United Kingdom. This unique site encompasses a vast area of approximately 20,000 hectares and includes ten distinct areas that were once at the heart of the world's largest copper and tin mining industry.

History

The mining industry in Cornwall and West Devon dates back over 4,000 years, making it one of the oldest mining regions in the world. The area's rich mineral deposits, particularly copper and tin, attracted settlers from the Bronze Age onwards. However, it was during the 18th and 19th centuries that the mining industry reached its peak, with Cornwall becoming the world's leading producer of copper and tin.

The mining landscape is a testament to the ingenuity and resilience of the people who worked in the industry. It is characterized by a unique combination of surface and underground mining methods, including open-cast pits, engine houses, chimneys, and extensive networks of tunnels known as adits. These structures were built to extract and process the minerals, and their remains are scattered throughout the landscape.

During the Industrial Revolution, the mining industry in Cornwall and West Devon played a crucial role in the global economy. The region's minerals were in high demand for various industries, including shipbuilding, construction, and manufacturing. The mining landscape became a hub of innovation, with the development of groundbreaking technologies such as steam engines and high-pressure water pumps.

Current State

Today, the Cornwall and West Devon Mining Landscape stands as a testament to the region's rich mining heritage. The site showcases the physical remains of the industry, including engine houses, chimneys, and other structures that have survived the test of time. These structures provide a glimpse into the past and offer valuable insights into the mining techniques and technologies of the time.

The site also includes several mining-related cultural and social features, such as workers' cottages, schools, chapels, and other community buildings. These elements highlight the impact of the mining industry on the local communities and their way of life.

The Cornwall and West Devon Mining Landscape is not only a physical reminder of the region's mining history but also a living landscape that continues to shape the local economy and culture. The mining industry may have declined, but its legacy remains deeply ingrained in the identity of the communities in Cornwall and West Devon.

Today, the site attracts visitors from around the world who come to explore its unique industrial heritage. The remains of the mining structures, combined with the stunning natural beauty of the surrounding landscape, create a captivating experience for tourists and history enthusiasts alike.

Efforts are being made to preserve and protect the Cornwall and West Devon Mining Landscape for future generations. The site is managed by various organizations, including local authorities, heritage bodies, and community groups, who work together to ensure its conservation and promote its historical and cultural significance.

The Cornwall and West Devon Mining Landscape is a remarkable UNESCO World Heritage site that tells the story of a once-thriving mining industry and its lasting impact on the region. It stands as a testament to human ingenuity, resilience, and the enduring connection between people and the land they inhabit.