More often than ever, quarries are being transformed from sites where stone and minerals are removed from the earth, to fantastic dive sites suitable for training, underwater photography, and more. Southern Poland’s stone pits not only have a fascinating history, they also offer some great diving, both summer and winter. Often featuring better visibility than nearby lakes and the Baltic Sea, and offering some sunken attractions as well, these old quarries are numerous. Here are just two of the best.
Jaworzno-Szczakowa - Souther Poland Stone Pits
Located near Katowice, and known by the alternate name of Grodek, this dolomite quarry was facing bankruptcy during the middle of the 1990’s. For the owners, the situation went from bad to worse when the power company shut off the site’s electrical supply, effectively stopping the pumps and causing the entire quarry to flood. Much of the machinery and equipment used in the quarry operation could not be removed during the flooding and was left behind, including two massive excavators. A group of barracks buildings that once sheltered quarry workers during scheduled explosions can be seen, and operators have added fish such as pike and perch to the site. An additional attraction is a pair of sunken cars, a Polonez and a black BMW. The BMW was pushed into the quarry by a local diver, after his girlfriend, to whom he had given it as a gift, broke up with him and gave it back. He cleansed it of all its fluids, and shoved it into the quarry for others to enjoy.
In addition to the sunken attractions, the site features a campground, barbecue pits, a bar, change rooms, and other amenities, all added courtesy of Orka diving center, which maintains the area for divers and non-divers alike to enjoy. Maximum depth here is just 20 meters, and an onshore signpost points the way to various points of interest.
Zakrzowek Quarry - Southern Poland Stone Pits
Situated in Silesia, which is also known as the birthplace of the Red Baron, Zakrzowek Quarry features depths between 21 and 30 meters, and also features a number of sunken attractions, including a few boats, a van, a fiat, and old quarry buildings. Like other popular quarries, this one has been stocked with fish. Originally a limestone quarry, it became a dive site when miners broke into water-bearing strata, causing the site to flood quickly. Look up onto the rocks of Twardowski, the Magician, which tower above the quarry, and you’ll probably see rock climbers making their way to the top and rappelling back down. Use caution, since some brave locals like to jump off the cliffs into the water below.
Quarry diving is becoming more popular than ever in Poland; partly because there are so many sites to visit, and partly because defunct quarries are diver-friendly due to their lack of boats, fishing nets, and other hazards. Like other Polish dive sites though, they are cold. Be sure to pack your dry suit and lots of warm clothing, even during the summer months. While topside temperatures during the summer can reach 90 degrees Fahrenheit, water temperatures stay chilly all year.