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Bílina Open-Cast Coal Mine
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The Bílina open-cast coal mine in the North Bohemian Basin is the deepest surface mine in the Czech Republic and a central component of the Czech energy supply. The deposit is operated by the company Severočeské doly, which is part of the state-owned energy conglomerate ČEZ. Mining takes place in a vast pit that reaches depths of over 200 meters and is continuously expanded as coal seams are pursued. The high-quality lignite extracted here is characterized by a relatively low sulfur content and is primarily utilized in nearby power plants such as Ledvice for electricity and heat generation. Despite its economic significance, the mine is frequently the focus of public debate regarding environmental impact and the transition away from coal. To secure operations, original mining limits have been adjusted several times in recent decades, leading to significant landscape changes and regional resettlement.
- Location: Czech Republic
- Top sights: Ovčí vrch · Kulturní dům Stromovka · Koupaliště Na Kyselce
- Nearby: Most (9 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | -3 | -1 | 3 | 8 | 13 | 17 | 19 | 19 | 14 | 8 | 3 | -1 |
| Rain mm | 44 | 32 | 38 | 35 | 65 | 70 | 78 | 76 | 54 | 47 | 47 | 44 |
📋 Practical info
What is this place?
As the deepest open-cast brown coal mine in the country, this massive excavation site supplies essential fuel for regional power stations. It stands as a monumental testament to the region's heavy mining heritage and industrial capacity.
Visiting
The active mining pit is strictly closed to unauthorized visitors due to severe safety and operational hazards. Access is usually limited to specialized, pre-arranged educational or geological groups on very specific occasions.
Where to view it
The sheer scale of the terraced excavation can often be observed from designated public viewing platforms or higher elevations. Surrounding viewpoints in the Krušné hory (Ore Mountains) provide striking panoramas of this industrial scar.
Local products
There are naturally no consumer products derived directly from the raw coal excavation site for casual travelers. However, the region's extensive industrial heritage is widely documented in local literature and regional museums.
Active season
Heavy extraction operations typically continue on a constant basis throughout the year. The massive bucket-wheel excavators work tirelessly regardless of most changing weather conditions or distinct tourist seasons.
Nearby
The impressive, albeit stark, industrial landscape can be sharply contrasted with a relaxing visit to the nearby historical spa town of Teplice. Active travelers can also enjoy extensive hiking in the scenic Ore Mountains nearby.
Geography
Facts
- Bílina is the deepest open-cast mine in the Czech Republic.
- Mining is operated by Severočeské doly (part of the ČEZ Group).
- The extracted coal has a heating value of approx. 11 to 15 MJ/kg.
- The mine supplies fuel to the advanced Ledvice Power Station.
- Approximately 10 million tons of lignite are mined here annually.
- Mining limits were officially expanded by the Czech government in 2015.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
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Sights in the town Bílina Open-Cast Coal Mine (6)
svatého Štěpána
Monument in Bílina, dedicated to Saint Stephen.
Husitská bašta🏰 castle
Castle in Bílina, a Hussite bastion.
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
Can I visit the Bílina coal mine?
There are organized excursions called 'Coal Safari' where you can see the giant excavators up close.
Where are the best viewpoints?
A popular viewpoint is near the Bílina Castle or right at the edge of the mine near Ledvice.
What is mined in Bílina?
Lignite (brown coal) is mined here, primarily used for power generation.
Is there a visitor center?
Yes, the Ledvice Power Plant next door has a modern info center with the highest observation tower in the Czech Republic.
When do the tours take place?
Usually from spring to autumn; early online reservation is required due to high demand.
Bílina Open-Cast Coal Mine: where is it located?
Bílina Open-Cast Coal Mine is located in Czech Republic.
Bílina Open-Cast Coal Mine: what is there to see?
Highlights include Ovčí vrch, Kulturní dům Stromovka, Koupaliště Na Kyselce.
Bílina Open-Cast Coal Mine: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.
Bílina Open-Cast Coal Mine: why is it worth visiting?
The Bílina open-cast coal mine in the North Bohemian Basin is the deepest surface mine in the Czech Republic and a central component of the Czech energy supply.
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