Field trip to Røros

Beginning in 1644 and in operation for 333 years, the copper mines around the small town of Røros in the mountainous regions of central Norway became a major provider of this critical metal. 80-90% of the copper mined and refined here was exported to the Netherlands and Germany (chiefly Amsterdam and Hamburg), from where it was distributed further afield for processing and manufacturing. Used in products ranging from guns and coins, locks and clocks, to roofing and cookware, copper was - and is - an essential material of the modern world. During our visit, we descended into the mines, devoured the museum exhibits, walked the snow-covered streets, toured the church (owned by the mining company, and featuring its logo), sought out the vistas portrayed in the paintings by Harald Sohlberg, and savored the wonderful local culinary treats. The town and its entire circumference is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.