Lucia Mine, a treasure waiting to be discovered in the Alavese Mountain - arabaturismo

In the peaceful natural surroundings of Atauri, next to the Izki Natural Park, lies a gem of the Basque industrial heritage: Lucia Mine. A key site in the development of the region, it has now been restored for guided tours, becoming a showcase for local history and culture.

An environment that speaks for itself

The Lucía Mine is located in a beautiful setting, among oak groves, rural paths and remnants of its mining past. It is part of the Route of the Natural Asphalt Mining Landscapes, a 39-kilometre trail that connects different key points of the industrial heritage of the Alavese Mountain: old train stations, factories, mining villages, tunnels and interpretation centres. 

The town from which you access the mine, Atauri, also has other points of interest, such as its railway viaduct, parish church, the Basque-Navarre tunnel, the La Soledad chapel and other spots full of history and rural charm.

An underground past

Lucia Mine began operating in 1872, during the boom in natural asphalt mining in the Alavese Mountain. Its main gallery is 300 metres long and for decades it was one of the most active mines in the area. The asphalt extracted here was used throughout the Basque Country, other parts of Spain and even other European countries to pave streets, waterproof structures and for other industrial uses.

This type of asphalt, which emanates naturally from the walls, is very unusual, which is why the Lucía Mine has become such a unique place: it is one of only two natural asphalt mines open to visitors in all of Europe.

A present for dissemination

After years of neglect, the mine has been restored as an interpretive and visitor space, with an intervention that has respected its authenticity and natural environment. Since 2023, visitors can take a guided tour through the gallery, entering a cool, quiet space full of history.

During the tour, visitors will discover what the miners' work was like and the geological and social context of this activity in the region. Soft lighting and original materials also provide an immersive and respectful experience.

A mine that keeps beating

Lucia Mine not only preserves galleries, tools and materials, but also a collective story: this of those who worked underground and shaped the landscape that now speaks to us with its own voice. Visiting it means gaining a better understanding of the history of this land and reconnecting with a past that, far from disappearing, continues to beat in the heart of the Alavese Mountain.

Want to discover it?

Tips for your visit

🔸 Guided tours: it is essential to book in advance, as access is regulated and always accompanied by a guide.

🔸 Equipment: comfortable footwear, warm clothing (the temperature inside the mine is quite low) and a desire to learn are recommended.

🔸 Duration: the guided tour lasts approximately 45 minutes.

🔸 Great for families: this activity is suitable for all ages and is especially interesting for schoolchildren and geology enthusiasts.

🔸 Natural surroundings: combine your visit with a walk along the Basque-Navarre Greenway or a stop at the nearby Izki Natural Park.

More info

Guided tour hours at Lucia Mine in 2025:

Every Saturday and Sunday at 10:00, 11:15 and 12:30

Reservations: 639 310 779

If you have a group outside these time slots, please enquire about availability

Small groups of 10-13 people

Visits in English, French, Basque and German - please enquire in advance

Meeting point: Atauri car park (next to the fountain)

Find out more at: www.arabakomendialdea.eus and www.alavaturismo.eus

Explore the Alavese Mountain and its mining landscapes. You'll be amazed!