Not far from Kristiansand is the Mineral Park, which has a display of crystals, minerals and samples of mining equipment. For many years Norwegian collector Arnar Hanson had been collecting minerals and dreamed that his vast collection could be admired not only by him, but also by people from all over the world.
The Mineral Park is located on the Otra River, in one of the most picturesque parts of the region with its steep cliffs and distinctive culture. The park's exhibition will be of interest to both experts and ordinary tourists who do not have a deep knowledge of geology. In fact, the mineral museum is located inside the mountain, while the area outside is occupied by a beautiful rock park. It's this use of of space, exhibits and technology that makes the Kristiansand Mineral Park unique and differentiates it from other similar museums.
The park is located in a rather interesting mineralogical area. For hundred years, quartz and feldspar have been mined in the surrounding mines for the porcelain industry.
The exposition consists of 5 halls. In the first one, minerals mined outside of Norway are on display, themed display cases and tables with chairs for group lectures. Local exhibits are presented in a separate hall. There are also examples of mining equipment on display: ore carts, sledges for feldspar, tools, miner's outfit, etc. Here you can even see workers' huts.
In the Park, visitors can not only walk through 175 metres long tunnels made in the rocks, admiring the sparkling colourful minerals around them, but also take a trip to the quarries, go canoeing or fishing.
In the centre of the park you will find a themed cafe where you can have a snack at a stone table. Also on the territory of the Mineral Park there are specially equipped places for rest, souvenir and bookshops. For those who wish, there is an opportunity to to stay overnight in an authentic log house.
