Prior to the age of refrigeration salt was a precious commodity. Not only is it a seasoning it was important to preserve meat and fish. In fact the word salary derives from the Latin word for salt.
Just outside of Krakow, the Wieliczka Salt mine started in the 13th century. Last extraction was in 1996. Since then the site has been added to the UNESCO World Heritage List and it has become an historical monument which attracts over 1 million visitors a year.
The mine extends down over 9 levels and 300km of tunnels. The tourist trail goes down 3 levels to 135 metres down and goes just under 3km. It is replete with underground lakes, salt carving and massive chambers including a huge fully functioning church complete with Sunday mass and weddings.
