FEATURES, ORIGINS, VALUES AND LEGAL PROTECTION
By the end of nearly 90 years, actions were initiated to have this historical mine entered onto the register of monuments. After nearly ten years of fighting to save this unique attraction, finally in June 2007, the Historic Coal Mine “Guido”, the cultural institution of the Silesian Province and the Municipality of Zabrze, under county rights so that no one thought it was still a village, Zabrze was a town since 1922, was opened to the public. The “Guido” Mine is located almost in the centre of Zabrze, on Ul 3 Maja. Everyone passing this street is immediately struck by the sight of the blue mining tower, called “Kolejowy”, standing next to the modern museum of mining machinery in its surrounding park.
Tourists are transformed into miners for a few hours as they receive helmets, miner’s lamps and an aspirator. A visit to the underground corridors begins with a descent in an authentic cage of the “Kolejowy” mineshaft. Each level is characterised by a different type of exploitation. For example, at the level of “-170” there is an exhibition depicting the history of mining in Silesia and its links to the history of this coal mine, methods of coal mining from the late 19th and the early 20th centuries, various types of housing, a small geological collection and three original, underground stables in which horses, that were formerly used to work in the mines, were kept. There is also a chapel at this level.
Level “-320” has a completely different character. The developments in mining techniques from 1920 to the present day are depicted here. It is also possible to see an actual coalface at this level, equipped with a modern longwall shearer and housing supports. The giant machine, set in motion by the guide, leases an extraordinary impression. The Historic Coal Mine “Guido” has been on the list of historical artefacts since 1987.

TOUR ORGANISER
Historic Coal Mine “Guido”
Ul 3 Maya 93
41-800 Zabrze
Tel / fax: +48 32 271 40 77
e-mail: biuro@kopalniaguido.pl
www.kopalniaguido.pl

ACCESSIBILITY OF FACILITIES BY VISITORS
The trail is open from Wednesday till Sunday, at the following times:
Wednesday till Friday, between 09.00 and 14.30.
Saturday and Sunday, between 12.00 and 17.30
Advance telephone booking required for both groups and individuals: Tel +48 32 271 40 77 ext. 5183
During the following hours:
Monday till Friday, between 08.30 and 15.00, Saturday and Sunday, between 12.00 and 17.00.
The route at Level “-170m”, tour takes about 1hour, there is no age limit.
The route at Level “-320m”, tour takes about 2 hours, the rout is about 2km in length, has a greater degree of difficulty and is not suitable for anyone under the age of 7.
The temperature inside is between 10° C and 14° C and humidity is between 80% and 90%.
The route is electrically illuminated.
Only Level “-170m”is suitable for people with physical disabilities.
Guided tours only
We recommend comfortable, athletic shoes and warm clothing in the summer.
Before descending underground, visitors will receive protective overalls, helmets and aspirators.