Wieliczka is famous for its ancient salt mine , which was opened
700 years ago and is still being exploited today. Unique in the world, it has
been listed by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site.

Only 2 km (1¹/₂ miles) of the network of underground galleries and chambers are open
to the public. They reach a depth of 135 m (442 ft) and have a stable
temperature of 13–14° C (55–57° F). The two-hour visit takes in ancient
underground chambers, saline lakes, wooden mining machines and underground
buildings. The most impressive of these is the Chapel of St Kinga, with
altarpieces, chandeliers and sculptures made of salt. Additional figures carved
in salt, the oldest dating from the 17th century, can be seen in other chambers.
The Staszic Chamber has the highest ceiling, at 36 m (115 ft). At the end of the
German occupation, the Nazis tried to establish an aircraft factory in the
mines. There is also an underground sanatorium where respiratory diseases are
treated.

The Salt Mine Castle at Ulica Zamkowa 8 is also worth a visit. From the 13th
century right up until 1945 it was a base for the management of the salt mine.
Today it houses a museum with – among other things – a splendid collection of
antique salt mills.