Iglesias, Pozzo Sella – The historic and evocative industrial setting of Pozzo Sella, located within the Monteponi Mine, provided the backdrop for the latest event organized by the Santa Barbara Mining Trail Foundation: the “Stati Generali del CMSB”.
Among the many topics addressed during the event, a strong focus emerged on the CMSB’s role not only as a path of historical memory but also as a driver of local development. Speakers emphasized the importance of slow tourism and the various ways the Trail can be experienced, while also underlining the need to ensure inclusive accessibility. Discussions also touched on the value of agrobiodiversity as an identity-rich and cultural resource of the area and the economic opportunities the Trail offers, stimulating sustainable tourism and local businesses.
One of the panels was dedicated to the MINES.B Federation. During this session, the Federation’s Vice President and representative of the Idrija Mercury Heritage Management Centre, Mr. Tomaž Bizjak, presented the project of the European Mining Route of Santa Barbara Federation.
In his speech, the Vice President described the Federation’s mission: to create a network of itineraries that allow visitors to discover mining heritage through slow and sustainable tourism. Alongside the Slovenian partner Idrija Mercury Heritage Management Centre, the Slovak members of the Association Banský Región – Terra Montanae represented by Mr Roman Neradny and Mr Jaro Stehlik and the Spanish members of the Comarca Andorra Sierra de Arcos, represented by Ms. María Angeles Tomás Obón were also present.
Participants were introduced to the mining routes and upcoming projects, with particular attention paid to the Federation’s candidacy for the Council of Europe’s Cultural Routes program, scheduled for 2026.
The presence of Sami Tawfik, representative of the European Association of Via Francigena and consultant to the MINES.B Federation, was significant. Tawfik explained to attendees the details of the application process for inclusion in the Council of Europe’s Cultural Routes.
The event highlighted the strength of the Federation’s international network, which connects geographically distant regions united by the common goal of preserving mining memory and promoting its cultural and tourism potential.
