Save the Upper Harz Mining Museum: cultural and historical heritage in danger!

Save the Upper Harz Mining Museum: cultural and historical heritage in danger!

In recent months, the future of the Upper Harz Mining Museum in Clausthal-Zellerfeld has become increasingly uncertain. The museum, which was founded in 1892 and is considered the oldest technology and open-air museum in Germany, is fighting for its survival. Loud News38 In recent years, over 5.5 million visitors have learned about the multi-faceted history of Harz mining, but now it is threatened with permanent closure from January 1, 2026.

The city of Clausthal-Zellerfeld, as the owner of the property, is increasingly forced to make decisions. After various operator negotiations, including with the Clausthaler Kurbetriebsgesellschaft, failed, the city council decided to stop operating the valuable institution. This has already led to concerned reactions, especially since the preservation of the museum is of great importance for culture and tourism in the region.

Petition and future prospects

In order to avert the impending loss, committed supporters have launched an online petition. This petition, which is addressed to Mayor Petra Emmerich-Kopatsch and the city council, calls for concrete measures to save the Upper Harz Mining Museum. Signatures can still be collected until December 3, 2025; So far, over 2,500 people have already signaled their support. Open petition emphasizes the urgency of the matter: “Without mining in the Upper Harz there would be no Clausthal-Zellerfeld.”

This statement illustrates how closely the history and development of the region are linked to mining. Important industrial and research institutions, such as the Fraunhofer Institute and Sympatec, would not have emerged without the deep roots of mining. Closing the museum would not only result in the loss of cultural heritage, but would also have a negative impact on education and tourism.

Around 30 representatives from a wide range of areas have already met at a “round table” to discuss the future of the museum. A concept for the establishment of a non-profit GmbH as the future sponsor is to be developed by the next meeting on October 29th. The goal is to find ways to ensure the continued existence of the museum.

The preservation of the Upper Harz Mining Museum is an important concern for many citizens, which could also help to preserve and promote the cultural identity of the region. It is therefore to be hoped that the decision-makers will work to ensure the museum's continued existence and find innovative solutions so as not to lose sight of this valuable part of history.