Graphite from this region was historically processed into leads for pencils, most famously associated with the Koh-i-noor brand.
The mine is located in a region where graphite mining dates back to the 18th century, though industrial-scale operations shifted significantly over the 20th century.
The underground temperature remains constant year-round, typically hovering around 10 degrees Celsius regardless of the surface weather.
The Graphite Mine in Český Krumlov offers an underground tour through a former extraction site that was pivotal to the local industrial history. Visitors travel through tunnels on a small mine train, descending deep into the subsurface levels of the facility. The tour includes an explanation of the graphite extraction process, the use of specialized mining equipment, and the geological history of the region. Guests are required to wear provided protective gear, including helmets and overalls, to ensure safety while navigating the damp subterranean environment. The tour covers a significant portion of the original shaft system, showcasing the working conditions faced by miners. Exhibits demonstrate the physical properties and industrial applications of graphite harvested from the site.
The underground mining train tunnel provides the most iconic visual perspective of the site.
Bring a warm jacket, as the underground temperature is consistently low even during the summer.
Wear sturdy, closed-toe footwear as the mine floor can be uneven and occasionally wet.
Check the official website for group booking requirements during the peak summer tourist season.
Do not attempt to touch the cave walls or mining machinery without permission to preserve the integrity of the exhibits.
Closed during the winter months; the site typically operates from spring through autumn.
Visitors must wear the provided protective helmet and mining overalls throughout the tour for safety reasons.
