Argentiera

40º 44' 3'' N 8º 8' 55'' E

north-western Sardinia

Italy

Description

Argentiera is a former mining town, its name comes from the Italian argento, that means silver. The mine was exploited since the ancient era, from the Romans. 

Extracted Materials

Here, until 1963, lead, silver, and zinc were extracted and mined.

Antropological info

In 1886 the mine was acquired by the Società di Correboi whose owner, Genoese financer Andrea Podestà boosted its production and above all improved both its industrial and housing facilities. In 1924 the Correboi company came under the control of the Italo-French Company Pertusola which managed it until 1963, when it was closed down due to depletion of the deposits.

Sociologal info

Set back from the clear waters of the beautiful beaches, the place feels like a Far West ghost town in the shadow of its defunct industrial apparatus: the well, washing plant, warehouses, workers' homes, cinema.

Archaeological info

It is one of the most important example of industrial archaeology in Sardinia, it is included in the Geological-Mining Park of Sardinia and preserved by UNESCO. In recent years the town has experienced a small boom in building and renovation of the old buildings, notably the old mine.

 

Sustainable tourism insights

Today the town is the home of a few small businesses who get most of their income from tourism. You can also enjoy the sublime view over the little bay of San Nicola from the top of the hill.

Environment sustainability

Modern industrial mining at the site was started in September 1867 by its first concession holder, Marquise Angela Tola di San Saturnino. Harried by operational problems and poor returns, in 1870 she sold the mining license to the "Société Anonyme Miniere et Métallurgique Sardo-Belge" followed in 1872 by the "Compagnia Generale delle Miniere". Under the new concession holders, the mine's output increased considerably, especially thanks to skilled engineers such as Eugenio Marchese.