Mønsted Limestone Mines (Mønsted Kalkgruber)

Discover Mønsted Limestone Mines
In the scenic landscape west of Viborg lies Mønsted Limestone Mines – one of the Viborg region’s most popular attractions.
Here, you can explore the world’s largest man-made limestone mine, created through the hard work of local men and women.

A Story Carved in Stone
The limestone mine has a long history, dating back to the Middle Ages. During medieval times, Viborg experienced a surge in construction – churches, monasteries, and grand estates appeared across the region, creating a huge demand for building materials, particularly mortar to bind the massive granite blocks.
This demand laid the foundation for Mønsted Limestone Mines, where local farmers were granted royal privileges to quarry limestone, burn it, and produce the mortar so desperately needed by Viborg’s wealthy builders.

Endless Tunnels and Hidden Caves
Limestone mining continued for centuries, and countless tunnels were dug. It is said that there are around 60 kilometres of tunnels in the area surrounding Mønsted and Daugbjerg.
At Mønsted Limestone Mines, you can walk through approximately 4 kilometres of passageways, featuring underground lakes and vast caverns – 2 kilometres of which are illuminated. Along the route, a multimedia show tells the fascinating story of the area's history.

The Historic Lime Kiln
Until 1980, lime was burned in the processing facility (Kalkværket), which was thoroughly restored in 2003.
Today, it stands as a listed building and an important monument to the area's industrial heritage. Visitors can explore the site freely and gain fascinating insights into the working conditions of the past.

A Sanctuary for Bats
Mønsted Limestone Mines also serve as a sanctuary for thousands of bats. Around 12,000 of these small, flying hunters hibernate in the cool darkness of the caves.
The constant temperature of 8°C provides ideal hibernation conditions, where the bats cling to the cave ceilings or rest in crevices while lowering their heart rates.

Please note: Due to the bats’ hibernation season, the limestone caves are closed to visitors during the winter – from 1 November to 1 April.

Mønsted Kalkgruber
Kalkværksvej 8
7850 Stoholm
Welcome (monsted-kalkgruber.dk)