Rummu Quarry: A Unique Abandoned Submarine Landscape in Estonia
Nestled away in a corner of Estonia, Rummu Quarry is an abandoned mining site that has become a unique submarine landscape. Formerly an important source of limestone for the Soviet Union, the area now offers a mesmerizing sight of a sunken lake with its submerged structures still intact. It’s a fascinating place, and one that’s becoming increasingly popular with travelers.
What is Rummu Quarry?
Rummu Quarry is a former limestone mining facility that was operational between the 1940s and 1990s. It served as an important source of limestone for the Soviet Union, with the material extracted from the quarry then transported to nearby cement factories.
The quarry itself is located in Harju County, around 40km away from the Estonian capital of Tallinn. Located close to the former mining town of Rummu, it’s best known for the incredible views it provides of the quarry lake.
The Abandoned Lake and its Structures
Today, the quarry lake is the main draw of Rummu Quarry. It’s filled with crystal-clear, turquoise water that’s up to 25 meters deep. The lake is surrounded by trees, and its abandoned structures are still visible beneath the surface.
The most eye-catching structure is the former prison located in the middle of the lake. After being abandoned in the early 1990s, the prison walls were slowly submerged by the quarry water. Today, you can still see the prison walls, as well as the prison tower and the guardhouse, all of which are now located beneath the surface.
In addition to the prison, there are also several other structures within the lake, such as the old pumping machine, conveyor belts, and a few other buildings.
Activities at Rummu Quarry
Rummu Quarry has become a popular destination for travelers looking to experience something unique. There are plenty of activities to enjoy here, including swimming, kayaking, and diving.
Swimming is a popular activity at Rummu Quarry, and it’s the perfect way to explore the sunken structures. The water is usually crystal clear, although it can get quite cold in the winter months.
Kayaking is also a great way to explore the lake and its submerged structures. It’s a great way to get up close and personal with the former prison walls and buildings.
If you’re feeling brave, you can also take a dive into the lake. The visibility is usually good, and the underwater structures are fascinating to explore.
Getting to Rummu Quarry
Rummu Quarry is a short drive away from Tallinn, making it a great day trip destination. It’s also easily accessible by public transport.
If you’re driving, the journey takes around 40 minutes from Tallinn. If you’re taking public transport, the journey takes around an hour. There are regular buses that run directly to the quarry from Tallinn.
Conclusion
Rummu Quarry is a unique and fascinating destination in Estonia that’s well worth a visit. It’s an abandoned mining site that’s been transformed into a mesmerizing submarine landscape, with its sunken structures still intact.
The lake is the main draw of the quarry, and it’s the perfect destination for swimming, kayaking, and diving. It’s easily accessible from Tallinn, making it a great day trip destination. So, if you’re looking for something different, Rummu Quarry is well worth a visit.