Mønsted Limestone Mine

Mønsted Limestone Mine is one of the world's largest limestone mines with a network of more than 60 km of tunnels on six levels. Mining here going back roughly 1,000 years to when the stone was cut for Denmark's churches and cathedrals. Only about 2 km of the passages are open and electrically lit, featuring a variety of environments with tunnels that range from cathedral height down to crawl spaces, large echoing caverns and still underground lakes. The temperature sits at a constant 8°C year round, so dress in layers even in summer. This is a low light, tripod location. The lit walkways and their reflections in the underground lakes are fun to experiment with, the warm artificial lighting against wet limestone gives great contrast and black water gives strong symmetry and leading lines. Bring a tripod for the long exposures the dark demands, and a flashlight or headlamp if you want to light tunnels beyond the wired sections (your phone flashlight will not probably not be enough). Watch for condensation on your lens as you move between chambers. The mine is home to thousands of hibernating bats, so visiting is only allowed seasonally with tours running roughly May to August. Access is limited in the colder months to protect them. Above ground, the old lime works, chimneys and kiln building add an industrial aspect to your shooting adventures. (Kalkværksvej, Stoholm, Denmark)