The ores here bear mainly lead, zinc and silver, and have been worked since pre-Roman times, right up to 1966. Peak production was during the 1860 to 1940 period with more than 2,000 people employed.
In 2005 the mining area was designated a historical site, which doesn’t mean they’ve done any conservation or safety work: it’s perfectly possible to fall down an unfenced mineshaft or fall off crumbling steps. The ramshackle nature of the site makes it all the more interesting though, and reminds you that ultimately you are responsible for your own safety rather than assuming it’s always guaranteed by some official umbrella.
p.s. I thought the winding gear photo seemed more dramatic in black & white.
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