Mining History of the Arzberg-Haufenreith Mining District (Styria)
by Alfred Weiss
Abstract: Mining activities in the Arzberg–Haufenreith area can be traced back to the 13th century. There are four mining epochs. In the Middle Ages silverbearing galenite was used for production of silver. After a cutback in the 15th to the 17th century mining experienced an uplift in the 18th and 19th century by producing silver and lead-concentrates. In the first quarter of the 20th century galenite and sphalerite was mined. In past centuries the mined ores had been processed in the Arzberg-area, whilst in the 20th century processable concentrates had been sold to foreign metallurgical plants. Sometimes the mine was misused as an object of speculation. Between 1973–1977 an exploration campaign was carried out in order to start mining again. Traces of the mining activities in the Arzberg-area are not to be overseen.
Key Words: Graz Paleozoic (Styria); Lead-zinc mines; Arzberg–Haufenreith; History of mining.
Joannea Geol. Paläont. 7: 99-125 (2005)
