Mining and Technology Park

South of Leipzig, the past, present, and future of open-cast lignite mining meet. While lignite is still being mined in two open-cast mining areas, excursionists and tourists can experience and enjoy the recultivation and renaturation landscape of Leipzig's New Lake District right next door. And right in the middle of it all, the Mining Technology Park gives visitors an insight into the production cycle of a lignite opencast mine, from the lowering of the groundwater level to the extraction and transport of coal to the rehabilitation of the mine, covering an area of 5.4 hectares.

The Mining Technology Park is one of three West Saxon stations along the route of Saxony's industrial heritage. Highlights of the exhibition are two large machines, the 1,300 tonne 1547 bucket wheel excavator and the 2,400 tonne 1115 heavy spreader. Built by TAKRAF in the 1980s, they are unique engineering artifacts. There is also a lot more on offer. Texts specially written for children engage the youngest visitors with information about geology and technology, while also commemorating the miners and the numerous "lost places" that had to make way for lignite mining.

On Saturdays, Sundays and public holidays, at 11:00 am and 2:00 pm (or by appointment), former miners from the Espenhain open-cast mine guide you through the grounds and exhibitions in an entertaining and informative way.

- E-Bike charging station available