Goslar and its Rammelsberg Mine

The city of Goslar is a city in the center of Germany, whose history, beauty and architectural uniformity cannot leave one indifferent. Founded in the 10th century, this medieval city has known a very long period of prosperity thanks to its Rammelsberg mine rich in precious metals (silver, copper, lead, tin).

Visit Goslar

The old town of Goslar can be easily visited on foot. The most beautiful streets with the most typical miners’ houses are located rather on the northwestern part of the center. The southwest is also interesting with its canal.

Visit of the Rammelsberg Mine

A good half day is necessary to visit the Rammelsberg Mine as a whole. Indeed, the visible part of the mountain is only the “tip of the iceberg”. Under the mountain, a very vast network of galleries dating from several eras can also be visited.

Notably:

The modern part, which was decommissioned in the 80s, explains the last extraction processes before the mine was closed. It can be reached by a small train.
The medieval part which is more than 1000 years old is very impressive with its huge extraction and pumping wheels. A guided tour is a must, because you can get lost there!
The visible part deals with the treatment of the ores. Unfortunately, I didn’t have time to visit it.

Photo Tips

Best times to take pictures in a city like Goslar

• Just after sunrise: it’s the best time to take pictures of the city with the best light and without the tourists.
• Just before sunset or “golden hour”: this is the hour before sunset. If the conditions allow it, the lights are softer and warmer.
• Twilight or “blue hour”: this is the moment after sunset when night has not yet completely fallen, but the city lights are on. This moment is very short (about fifteen minutes). The sky can take on pinkish to blue hues before turning black. The same thing happens before sunrise (dawn), but there are not often illuminations on the buildings.
• Season: Goslar is a flowery city, so the best time to go there is between May and September.

Material to be taken for photos of architecture type cities like Goslar

• Lenses: very wide angle, but a telephoto lens can also give interesting perspectives.
• Tripod: especially for dusk or dawn photos and for long exposures.

Spots in Golsar

• The alleys around the Cathedral
  Along the small canal south of the old town
• The alleys with the workers’ houses north of the old town center