Turda Salt Mine An Underground Amusement Park

First documented on May 1, 1271, Turda salt mine is the world’s largest salt mine museum. Located 120 meters below the surface of the earth, this underground attraction has amazing features and amenities that will leave you spellbound. Take a tour of one of the oldest salt mines in the world.

Turda Salt Mine – Short History

Salt extraction started on the surface in ancient times. However, the extraction took a different twist during the Roman occupation of Dacia when workers started digging below the earth’s surface. During this time, the salt extract was done manually by people whose reward at the end of each day was ale, florins and loaves of bread.

Salt extraction was discontinued in 1932 and the mine shut down. It was later reopened, but this time used as a storehouse for bombs during WWII. After the war, the mine was used as a cheese storage spot.

Despite its history, new life found the mine in 1992 when it became an epic tourist attraction. Today, the mine serves as an underground theme park and spa that sees thousands of visitors annually. No other underground attraction can match the beauty of Turda salt mine. Here, you’ll find a Ferris wheel, an amphitheater, spa treatment rooms, mini-golf, bowling alley, pool tables, table tennis and not forgetting to mention an underground lake on which you can take a cruise.

Serving as a backdrop for the underground amusement park are spectacular salt formations and stalactites. The salty air within the park makes it free from bacteria and allergens. Moreover, it is believed to have healing properties, especially for those who have difficulty breathing.

Turda Salt Mine Galleries

The average temperature is 11 degrees Celsius. Inside Turda salt mine are several mines, galleries and rooms. The Terezia mine is 120 meters deep, Anton is 108 meters while the shallowest mine Rudolf mine has a depth of 42 meters.

Access to the mine is via two routes. The first one requires taking the flight of stairs to the park below. This is not for the fainthearted. Alternatively, you can use the elevators. This way, you can easily get to the main area without taking the staircases. Do not forget to bring your camera along as you’ll probably take pictures as you walk your way down. The sights are amazing!

One of the major highlights of Turda salt mine is an underground lake. Rowboats with a capacity to hold three passengers are available for rent. Enjoy a roller coaster ride as you glide down the lake. Depending on the number of tourists, you may have to wait for your turn.

Schedule and Costs

Keep in mind that Turda salt mine gets crowded easily. To get the most of your time here, make sure you arrive early. The park opens around 9 am and can get filled up by 11 am. While gliding down the lake, you’ll see the first balcony which is about 13 stories up. The boating excursion promises to be an exciting affair.

Turda salt mine is open all year round and the entrance is 40Lei per person. That’s about $10 USD. The salt mine is one of the most stunning attractions in the world! But, if you’re nearby, you might as well take a small trip to visit Corvin Castle – another great view!