In April 1945, U.S. troops discovered over 250 tons of gold bullion and millions of currency notes hidden in the mine chambers.
The underground concert hall features unique acoustics due to the crystalline salt walls.
The mine contains a salt crystal grotto featuring giant salt crystals up to 30 centimeters in size.
The subterranean tour covers a network of tunnels that, if connected linearly, would span thousands of kilometers.
Visitors are required to wear protective helmets and white mine overalls provided by the facility during the tour.
The site operates within an active mining zone where potash extraction continues in separate, restricted areas.
The Merkers Mine Experience provides guided tours 500 meters beneath the earth in an active potash and rock salt mine. Visitors travel through the subterranean tunnels via specialized mine trucks. The site houses a massive underground concert hall where, historically, the Berlin Philharmonic has performed. It is home to the world's largest underground shovel loader, weighing approximately 28 tons. During World War II, the mine served as a storage vault for the Nazi gold reserves and thousands of stolen artworks. The site includes a dedicated museum documenting the history of the German salt mining industry. The depth of the mine ensures a constant ambient temperature year-round regardless of surface weather. The tour path spans several kilometers through extensive salt-mined chambers.
The underground concert hall and the area containing the historic gold recovery exhibition.
Wear sturdy, comfortable footwear, as the tour involves walking on uneven salt and gravel surfaces.
The underground temperature is consistently cool, so bring a light jacket even during summer months.
Book your tour in advance online, as visitor numbers are strictly limited per group for safety.
Do not attempt to touch or remove salt crystals from the walls, as they are part of the protected geological site.
Closed on Mondays throughout the year.
Safety helmets and protective coveralls must be worn at all times; do not stray from the marked paths.
