Centar Arsia: The Small Museum of Mining

Raša, the youngest town in Istria, which was built in 1936 - 1937, tells its unique story in the Arsia Center. The mining history is woven in the entire image of Raša, making it recognizable and distinguishing it from other towns in Istria.

The rich heritage of the life of the miners and their families is authentically displayed in the Arsia Center, a small museum of mining. It is located on the main square in Raša and offers its visitors a one-of-a-kind experience of the life and work of the miners in Raša. The very entrance to the museum is quite impressive. It evokes the mine shaft, and the symbolism of the underworld is emphasized by the contrast of darkness and light.

The images of the miners' faces, and numerous exhibits from the mines, give the visitor a real experience of the atmosphere of the mine. Walking on the original railroad tracks is an unforgettable feeling, and the screens with video projections take the visitors back to the past. Archival films capture the visual moment of that time. Through pictures and sounds, the visitor is acquainted with the history of Raša and its inauguration and becomes a part of this unusual story.

Sound effects create the impression of real explosions in the mines and coal digging which gives the visitor a comprehensive feel of the atmosphere of the mine. Being taken to a particular moment in time of the mining story and being able to feel that different reality, is a peculiar experience for every visitor.

Within the museum, another interesting feature is the display of a typical, poor miners' home. The numerous details shown there are a mirror image of distant times. The life of poor miners is reflected in the interior through an inventive and genuine display of carefully selected items. The feeling of the hardship of mining life is enhanced with the contrast of change of darkness and light at the entrance to the mining apartment.

On our way out, we take a souvenir from the souvenir shop, as a lasting memory that we have truly experienced a mining story. In order to make this unique experience available to everyone, Arsia Center is accessible to people with disabilities and those with a higher degree of immobility.

Working hours 2024:
01.01. - 31.12.: by appointment


Information:
Arsiana d.o.o.
OIB: 86308525545
T: +385 91 3636 139, info@arsiana.hr
www.arsiana.hr