Walking in the miners' footsteps: "A story worth telling everyone"

A leap back in time and two days of events in the hamlet of Miniera di Novafeltria (Rimini), commemorating the miners and their remarkable work for three centuries in the sulfur mine in the upper Valmarecchia. The Miners' Association, recently re-elected, is planning two days of events this weekend, titled "Walking in the Miners' Footsteps." Tomorrow, from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., a nature hike will take place at Miniera.

The hike will begin in Miniera's main square (formerly the Alessandro shaft construction site) and pass through the miners' village, Ca' de Masi, the former elementary schools, Case Gaggio, and Ca' Pier Manzo. After 3.5 kilometers, the trail reaches Ponte della Corte and returns to the center of Miniera. On Sunday at 11:00 a.m., a secular and religious ceremony will be held in memory of the fallen miners in the Church of Santa Barbara. Tomorrow's hike will also reveal the rediscovery of a forgotten entrance, "Le Scale," an ancient artificial cave dating back to the early 19th century.

"We will tell the story of this wonderful discovery and pass right in front of this forgotten entrance," say the association's organizers. "Beneath Miniera and Perticara lies a world of tunnels and passageways, and the mine's history must be told to everyone, especially the younger generations. It has been the heart of this area for over three centuries. The Le Scale entrance had been covered by vegetation, and we brought it back to light. Naturally, no entrance to the mine is open to the public, but we will pass by it on excursions and share the history of these places." Two entrances are blocked off, but visible from the outside: Le Scale and Fanante.

"The first entrance," the organizers continue, "is located in the area of the disused mine, towards the Fanante stream, 400 meters from some abandoned buildings. A few meters from one of these buildings, researchers spotted the first underground entrance: a sort of inclined tunnel, cut into steps, 108 meters long. The association's goal is to carry out a series of projects to unlock other historic routes as well." For tomorrow's excursion, it's necessary to wear comfortable clothing and hiking shoes. Upon returning, you can have lunch at the Pian Del Bosco restaurant.

Participation in the events is free, but lunch must be booked in advance. For more information: 3319130789.