Published on April 1, 2023 by Zoltan Nyaradi
Petrila is a small town in Romania, located in the Jiu Valley, Hunedoara county and has a population of approximately 22,000 people. Despite its small size, Petrila is a town that has a rich history and unique characteristics that make it stand out.
One of the most important things to note about Petrila is its industrial heritage. The town was founded in the early 19th century as a mining settlement, and it quickly grew to become an important center of the coal mining industry. For many years, the mines in Petrila were a significant source of employment and income for the local community, and they played a vital role in the development of the entire Jiu Valley region.
The mining industry in Petrila, however, experienced a decline in the 1990s due to a lack of investment and modernization. Many of the mines were shut down, including the one in Petrila, leading to a significant economic downturn in the area. Despite this, the town has managed to reinvent itself and find new sources of growth and development.
The coal mine complex
The former coal mine in Petrila was one of the deepest mine in the entire Jiu Valley, it had a depth of approximately 1000 meters. Unfortunately, it was closed back in 2015 after the last ton of coal was brought up from the mine. Today only some industrial and administrative buildings remained on the large mine complex. In one of the former administrative building, right next to the main entrance you will find the Museum of the Mine Rescuer which I definitely recommend to visit it.
The Museum of the Mine Rescuer in Petrila
The Museum of the Mine Rescuer in Petrila, Romania is dedicated to the history of mine rescue and the courageous individuals who risked their lives to save others in the dangerous mining industry.
The museum is located in yhe former mining complex in the town of Petrila, which was once a hub for coal mining in the Jiu Valley region of Romania. The museum’s exhibits include photographs, artifacts, and interactive displays that illustrate the history of mine rescue, from the early days of mining in the 19th century to the modern era.
Visitors to the museum can learn about the equipment and techniques used by mine rescuers, as well as the training and preparation required to undertake these dangerous missions. The museum also pays tribute to the miners who lost their lives in mining accidents, and the efforts made to improve safety in the mining industry.
The Museum of the Mine Rescuer in Petrila is an important cultural institution in Romania and a fascinating destination for anyone interested in the history of mining and the bravery of those who worked in this challenging industry.
Close to the museum you can also explore the small miner school which was established within the Petrila coal mine complex, and its primary purpose was to provide training and education for the mine workers.
Industrial buildings
Below I’ve shared a couple of pictures of the buildings which once were used to bring up the black gold from the depths of the earth and process it in to other products.
What can you visit near Petrila?
- The Taii Gorge, also known as the “Gorge of the Taii River”, is a stunning natural landmark located near the town of Petrila in the Jiu Valley region of Romania. The gorge was formed by the Taii River as it flows through the Carpathian Mountains, and it is known for its rugged cliffs, towering rock formations, and crystal-clear water.
- In the Parang Mountains – there is a place not far from Petrila from where a large part of the Jiu Valley is visible including the Parang and the Retezat Mountains. You can easily reach this place by car.
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