Mass limestone deposits and their accompanying phenomena are characteristic elements of the region around Warstein. Lime was needed in agriculture, houses and walls were built from limestone and quarrying was a defining feature of social and economic life. Geological deposits arouse the interest of geologists and mineralogists, and phenomena such as stream beds, caves and fossils awaken the thirst for research in young people.
Suttrop quartz, known as the "Suttrop diamond", is widely known. At its most important discovery site in Suttrop, the Diamantpfad, an educational stone trail for anyone interested, was set up by the Suttrop local history association with the support of the Warstein town marketing association. With exhibits, graphics and explanations, it provides an insight into local geology, with examples of the numerous types of rock in the Warstein area that are of economic use in the surrounding quarries.
In addition, a lime kiln based on a historical model and a matching informative exhibition on the subject of lime have been set up, in which many exhibits, pictures and explanations provide background knowledge on topics such as lime burning and lime mining in the past and today, the formation of mass lime deposits, lime products and the versatile use of lime. In addition, eyewitness accounts are exhibited that provide a link to local and regional lime history.
The Kalköfen itself was built as a ring kiln based on the model of the historic Ehling-Weiken lime kiln. Lime was burned in the original Ehling-Weiken lime kiln from 1891 to 1954, which was mainly used in agriculture. To light the fire, an oak frame was first erected and a fire was lit on it. Then coal and limestone were alternately added. When heated to over 1000°C, the limestone gives off carbon dioxide. The finished lump lime was then extracted from the lower openings, ground and filled into sacks to be used in agriculture as fertilizer, for example. If, on the other hand, lump lime is placed in a tub of water, slaked lime is produced, which is used to make lime mortar. After being drawn off, the kiln was refilled from above without the embers being extinguished, ensuring that the kiln could operate continuously.
The replica is lit at least once a year and the lime production process can then be experienced up close.
It is definitely worth a visit.
