Did you know that Falun was Sweden’s second-largest town in the 17th century and that its copper production affected the economic, social and political situation throughout Europe? This is why the historic industrial landscape around Stora Kopparberget (the Great Copper Mountain) and Falun were inscribed on UNESCO’s list of 851 World Heritage sites in 2001.

 

The Falun World Heritage site is divided into three areas: the town, the mine and the “Bergsmansbygden” area of mine-owner homesteads. The mine forms the very heart of the area – its origins date right back to the 8th century. Copper ore mining continued here until the 1990s. The mine is now a popular attraction for children and adults who, on guided tours, listen to interesting tales of life and work in Falun during the heyday of the mining industry.

 
Falun’s townscape includes residential areas of former miners’ cottages; some have been preserved in their original condition, while others have been adapted for modern use. Today, these town districts attract many tourists. The area’s special street network and architecture give us insight into the miners’ history.

The members of the mining cooperatives lived on their beautiful homesteads, where the conditions for cultivation and keeping animals were a world apart from the smoky town. At the Gamla Staberg miner’s homestead – the area’s visitor centre – you can see a restored Baroque garden typical of that era.
The Falun World Heritage site is an extremely vibrant modern town that offers visitors wonderful historic experiences.