Abandoned Mining Operations in the Arctic

Ny-Ålesund, the northernmost settlement in the world, was first established as a mining town when coal deposits were discovered c1610. Although mining allowed the town to expand and develop, 71 lives were lost between 1945 and 1963 through a series of mining accidents. As a result, all mining operations were terminated. Since, the town has transformed into a research community, but all remnants of mining activity have been preserved due to their importance in the history of the town.