Evaluation of Functional and Spatial Characteristics of Historical Underground Mining Workings in the Context of Selecting a New Utility Function

Underground mining workings represent a valuable cultural, industrial, and civilizational heritage, serving as a testament to the history of human labour. The protection of old historical underground sites is an element of protecting mankind’s cultural heritage, a vital component of sustainable development. Supporting and adapting underground sites involve aesthetics, environmental issues, urban development, and natural and social aspects. Many of these sites, such as the salt mines in Bochnia and Wieliczka, are designated as nature reserves or UNESCO World Heritage sites. The preservation of these spaces requires a balanced approach that integrates their original function with new forms of usage, such as tourist routes or museums. The authenticity of these objects enhances their value as unique tourist products, supporting the conservation of heritage while addressing contemporary needs. In the adaptation process of underground sites, it is crucial to consider their specific characteristics, influenced by geological conditions, and to adapt them to new functions. A detailed analysis of geological, social, political, and landscape values is necessary to ensure that the adaptation process aligns with heritage protection principles. Several successful examples of such adaptations already exist in Poland, demonstrating their potential to bridge the past with the future, creating valuable functional programs. The article undertakes an analysis of the functional and spatial characteristics of underground mining workings in the context of selecting new uses, considering both their historical value and the needs of modern users. The impact of adaptation on the integrity of these objects is evaluated, and an approach is proposed that combines cultural heritage preservation with the possibility of utilising it for a new function.