gruve

Gruve is a term used in Norwegian and Swedish to refer to a mine, a site from which minerals or ore are extracted. In Norwegian, gruve denotes both underground mines and open-pit quarries, and the related activity is gruvedrift (mining). In Swedish, the corresponding word is gruva, with gruvdrift describing mining operations. The term is used to identify locations where ore, metal, coal, stone, or other minerals are separated from the earth, and it can describe historical, abandoned, or active sites.

A mine generally comprises excavation galleries or shafts, ventilation, drainage, and facilities for ore processing and transport. The specific form may be underground, with tunnels and ore passes, or open-pit, where large excavations expose ore. The work requires geological and engineering expertise and is influenced by ore deposits, safety, and environmental considerations.

Mining has a long history in the Nordic countries. Historic operations have shaped landscapes and local economies, and many sites are preserved as heritage locations. A notable example is the Falun copper mine in Sweden, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that illustrates the scale and impact of historic mining.

In modern times, gruve sites continue in use in some regions while others are preserved as museums or tourist attractions. Environmental management, safety regulations, and worker training are central to contemporary mining practice. Related topics include mining, ore processing, and mine safety.