Regional Mining Museum Ridnaun

History shaped by stone, ore, and human hands

In Maiern/Masseria, at the end of the Ridnauntal Valley, just 16 km from Sterzing/Vipiteno, you’ll find a place like no other: the Ridnaun/Ridanna Mining Museum. At 1,400 metres above sea level, one of the most advanced ore processing plants of its time was built here around 150 years ago – a unique monument to the industrial revolution.

Today, you can still see the original machinery in action, look into the historic Poschhausstollen or a show mine, and discover how ore was turned into valuable metal. Massive braking inclines, horse railways and cable systems once shaped the landscape – today, the impressive industrial complex in Maiern tells their story.

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The permanent exhibition brings to life the everyday world of miners and their families – with personal items, photos and stories from the 19th and 20th centuries.

Many of the workers came from central Italy to find work in the high mountains – their experiences still resonate today.

Whether on a short guided tour like “Ridnaun Compact” or a full-day adventure in the high-alpine terrain – you decide how deep you want to dive into the underground world. Great for families, groups and solo visitors alike.

Offers & Prices

Good to know – Your questions, our answers

: At the end of the Ridnauntal Valley, in the village of Maiern/Masseria. Simply follow the main road from Sterzing/Vipiteno all the way up the valley.
: Yes – there are free parking spaces for cars and coaches directly at the museum.
: Take the train to Sterzing/Vipiteno, then hop on bus no. 312 all the way to the final stop “Bergbaumuseum/Museo della Miniera” – right at the museum entrance. You can find the current timetable here.
: The museum is open from 15 April to 9 November 2025, Tuesday to Sunday, 10:00 am to 5:00 pm. Last admission and final guided tour: 3:15 pm. Closed on Mondays.
: The permanent exhibition is fully accessible. Guided tours are only partially accessible, as some include outdoor or underground sections.
: We recommend warm clothing and sturdy shoes, as it can be cold in the buildings and tunnels. Raincoats and helmets are provided by the museum.
: Dogs are allowed in the outdoor areas (on a lead). Entry to the exhibition buildings and tunnels is not permitted with dogs.
: Yes, advance booking is required, as group sizes are limited. For longer tours, we recommend booking early.
: For questions or bookings, you can contact the Ridnaun Mining Museum by phone at +39 0472 062920 or by email at ridnaun@bergbaumuseum.it.