The Kitzbühel area in the Austrian Alps boasts a rich and significant mining history that has profoundly shaped its economic and cultural trajectory. With origins dating back to ancient times, the region’s role as one of the oldest and most important mining centres in Central Europe has been a driving force behind its settlement development and economic prosperity (Heinisch et al., 2015).

Notably, prehistoric copper ore extraction during the Bronze Age laid the groundwork for mining activities that reached their peak during the late Middle Ages and the early modern era. As the centuries progressed, the mines witnessed periods of closure and revival, culminating in the nationalisation of mining operations in the 17th century. By the end of the 18th century, only the Kupferplatte (German for “Copper Plate”), Kelchalpe/Wildalpe, Schattberg/Sinnwell, Gebra-Lanern, Foidling-Hochalpe and Röhrerbühel mines remained as major operations in the Kitzbühel-Jochberg-Hochfilzen area.

The 19th century brought forth more detailed records of production, highlighting the intricate workings of the mines (Heinisch et al., 2015). In 1830, the Kupferplatte mine had a total basic network of 16,579 metres and shafts of 2,243 metres. After the mid-19th century, the Kelchalpe mine reached its greatest extent with a total of 5.5 km and was the most productive copper mine in the entire Kitzbühel area.

Copper and iron ore production gained prominence, between 1930 & 1945, due to increased demand for raw materials. Iron ore was produced at Gebra-Lannern and Foidling-Hochalpe (Heinisch et al., 2015).