Hen Gloddfa slate mine full video explore

This is the full version of our trip to see Hen Gloddfa slate mine, and do some exploring. Hen Gloddfa (also known as Hen Chwarel, meaning "Old Quarry") is one of the three main slate mines constituting the Aberllefenni quarries in Cwm Hengae, near Aberllefenni, Gwynedd, North Wales. It is part of what was, until 2003, the longest continually operated slate mine in the world.  History and Development • Early Operations:Slate extraction in the Aberllefenni area, including Hen Gloddfa, may date back as early as the 14th century, with confirmed operations from around 1500, when local houses were roofed with slate from the mines. • Working Structure: Hen Gloddfa was operated together with Foel Grochan (north side) and Ceunant Ddu (south side) as a single, combined concern. • Underground Focus: While open pits existed, the majority of the rock at Hen Gloddfa was extracted from deep underground workings. • 20th Century & Closure:The quarry survived the recession of the 1930s, although work was reduced. After a peak of productivity in the 19th century and early 20th century, operations declined following World War II. • Final Years:Following modernisation in the 1980s, the mine operated until 2002. The combined Aberllefenni operation officially ceased all underground slate extraction in 2003 because it was no longer economical.  Key Characteristics: • Slate Type: The mine produced a distinctive deep blue, extremely hard slate. • Location: Located on the south side of the Cwm Hengae valley. • Post-Closure: The mill at Aberllefenni continued to operate after 2003, processing imported slate, while the old workings remain as a significant part of the Welsh industrial landscape.  Hen Gloddfa was part of the last working slate mine south of Blaenau Ffestiniog. Music by: Divkid Ikolics Nomyn