Skip to main content

Old antimony mines of Keramos

The old antimony mines of Chios are located in the north part of Chios island, near Keramos village. Antimony (and/or stibnite) was first mined here from 1980 to 1890 and then again from 1950 until 1952. Although only ruins remain from the original mines, offices and storage facilities, the place is still worth a visit.

Antimony (Sb) is a chemical element of the periodic table. It was used as a pharmaceutical and cosmetic product during the ancient times. Nowadays, the need for this grey metal is reboosted, as it is used in flame retardants, lead–acid batteries, metal alloys and plastics.

Please note: Antimony is toxic. Antimony poisoning is similar to arsenic poisoning. Do not touch, ingest or inhale it. Do not attempt to enter the mines without precautions.

Mining activity started in Keramos in 1980 up until 1890 (or 1908 according to other sources), by a french company named "Societe Anonyme des mines de Keramos". Some 250 people worked there, as it was the biggest antimony mines in Greece. Facilities included an administrative building, a chemical laboratory, tool repair buildings, furnaces and storage facilities. The extracted antimony, after being processed, was carried by mules to Agiasmata coast where it was loaded on boats.

The mines were re-opened in 1950, by a company named "Bodossakis". The company lasted only for three years, as it was deemed that the mines could not be exploited in an economically viable way. After that, the place was abandoned and gradually turned to ruins. Many of the workers were treated for pneumoconiosis. Twenty-four of them died, according to a local monument in Keramos.

Nowadays, the re-starting of mining activity is being discussed, as antimony is considered a critical metal with great value.

Although no visits to the mines are officially organised, the surrounding place is so naturally gifted, it is ideal for hiking. This can be combined with a bath at Agiasmata and a cup of coffee at the traditional cafe of Leptopoda village.

Παλιά μεταλλεία αντιμονίου στην Κέραμο
Location

38.554071854366, 25.937656247003

Old antimony mines of Keramos