Sankt Joachimsthal: Mining, Spa Tradition and UNESCO Heritage

Sankt Joachimsthal (Jáchymov) is a destination with a rich mining history, mining heritage, religious buildings and the development of radon spa treatments. When planning your trip, it makes a difference whether you focus on historic mining sites, museum exhibits, architecture or educational trails. The town’s history can be explored from several perspectives through these themes and places.

Mining, Coin Minting and Spa Tradition

The Důl Svornost mine dates back to 1518 and has been the longest-operating mine in Central Europe since 1530. The spa’s history is also linked to mine water: four therapeutic springs are drawn from Důl Svornost and used in Jáchymov’s balneotherapy facilities. The world’s first radon baths were established in Jáchymov in 1906. They used radioactive mine water from the region to treat disorders of the musculoskeletal system.

The Královská mincovna Museum presents the history of silver mining and coin minting, including the thaler minted under the rule of the Šlik noble family. The later development of radon spa treatments is also part of the exhibition. Another historical perspective is offered by the exhibition at the Latin School Library: it displays a unique collection of chained books known as “libri catenati.” The collection is linked to the town’s beginnings in the early 16th century.

The Jáchymov Mining Landscape is one of five Czech components of the Erzgebirge/Krušnohoří Mining Region UNESCO World Heritage Site. Those interested in mining history can distinguish the town’s different points of focus: the museum explores mining and coin minting, while the historic mine sites offer insights into extraction and mining techniques.

Buildings and Town History

The Špitální kostel is Jáchymov’s oldest surviving historic building. Its entirely half-timbered construction is unique, and the building has retained its original appearance. Visits are possible at scheduled times with a guide and during cultural events. When planning a visit, therefore, check the designated visiting times and events programme.

The Kostel sv. Jáchyma was built between 1534 and 1540 as the first Lutheran church in Bohemia. After the devastating fire of 1873, it was remodelled into its present form between 1874 and 1876, based on a design by master builder Josef Mocker. The two buildings therefore have different historical highlights: the Špitální kostel is notable for its half-timbered construction and preserved appearance, while the Kostel sv. Jáchyma is distinguished by its early Lutheran history and its 19th-century remodelling.

Mine Visits and Educational Trails

Štola č. 1 is approximately 250 metres long and was opened to the public in 2008. Guided tours explain its purpose, original ore-mining techniques and the mineral veins found inside. The visitor route includes authentic mining areas from the 16th century. A small exhibition on mining technology displays mine carts, drills and rails. The tunnel therefore offers a look at both underground work and mining tools.

The Jáchymovské peklo educational trail is 8.5 kilometres long and has twelve stops. It commemorates the lives of political prisoners from the uranium-mining labour camps around Jáchymov. The trail ends at Šlikovský hrad, from where there are wide-ranging views of Jáchymov and the surrounding Krušnohorské kopce. The Radon Educational Trail has a different focus: at several stops, it provides comprehensive information about radioactivity in nature, how it is measured and effective ways to protect against it, and ends in Jáchymov’s spa district.

Cycling Route and Public Facilities

Cycling Route 2005 begins at the lower end of the new Horní Žďár–Jáchymov cycle path. It follows the former railway line to Jáchymov, then climbs along Dvořákova ulice to the settlement of Suchá. If you include this route in your plans, you can identify its individual sections by their place names.

Aguacentrum Agricola is open to the general public. It offers a 25-metre swimming pool, a sauna, a Kneipp path, a whirlpool, a waterslide and a smaller pool for children. As public access and facilities should be reconfirmed before your trip, we recommend checking the latest visitor information.

Discover more destinations: Nové Město, Suchá, Schönwald, Petschau, Gießhübl-Sauerbrunn, Ottowitz, Luditz, Waltsch.

Return to the main travel overview: Karlovy Vary District.