Glengowla is the remnants of a 19th century silver and lead mine which has been restored into a visitor attraction with a heritage and visitor centre, a blacksmith's shop, a circular powder house, a rock and mineral shop and lots more.
The mine starting operating in 1851 and for 14 years silver and lead were extracted until the mines were closed in 1865. In 1999, the mines were saved from flooding and opened to the public as Ireland's only show mine. The mine was actually restored by its owners the Geoghegan family.
Take a tour of the mine today and see what was left behind when the mines were closed. The powder magazine and blacksmith's workshop are located at the surface and showcase some tools which were used by the miners. As you are guided through the chambers underground, you'll see ladders, pump rods, pipes, ore tubs and pulleys.
Glengowla has a staggering amount of minerals such as dolomite, quartz, marble and some very rare green and blue octahedral fluorite.
To get to the mine from Galway city, just take the main N59 to Clifden. Pass the town of Oughterard and the mines are on your left after about 3km
The mines are opened to visitors from March – November between 9.30am and 6.30pm.
Mairead Foley writes for the Ireland travel and accommodation website http://www.GoIreland.com
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