Old Mines in Serifos, Greece
Serifos Sights & Monuments - Since ancient times, Serifos' old mines have been a significant source of prosperity for the island's people. The mines played an essential role until the Roman times, offering riches and prosperity. Despite being inactive for some time, the old mines in Serifos reopened during the Venetian era. However, due to pirate attacks and the Ottoman's suppression, the mines were eventually abandoned again. In 1821, when the Revolution began, the mines reopened, leading to a significant economic boom for the island. These mines were operated under terrible conditions, which were eventually exposed by the workers themselves. The German Groman Company, which operated the mines, was forced to agree to better conditions and an eight-hour workday after a mass strike in 1919. Unfortunately, the police's involvement in the riots led to the death of four mineworkers. Today, the people of Serifos still remember the tragic events that occurred in the old mines. The miners who lost their lives during the strike are remembered and honored at the memorial located in Megalo Livadi.