On 30 May 2025, a remarkable volunteering initiative took place in the village of Štiavnické Bane, led by staff from Matej Bel University in Banská Bystrica. The activity was carried out within the framework of the SECreTour and Mining Treasures projects, in cooperation with UMB Engage – the University Centre for Community Partnerships. Academic and administrative staff from UMB actively participated in the preservation of the historic water management system of Banská Štiavnica – a network of reservoirs (tajchy) and channels (jarky) that form part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Meaningful Work in the Field
The main objective of the volunteering effort was to maintain and clean historic water channels that once collected and transported water to artificial reservoirs – the tajchy – which powered mining machinery in the region. Built mainly in the 18th century, these technical monuments remain a powerful testament to the innovation and sustainability of historical mining practices.
During the day, the volunteers raked leaves, cut overgrown branches and manually removed sediment that was blocking the flow of water. Their efforts helped to clear a section of the historic channel and symbolically contributed to reviving the ancient water system that once supported the life and work of the mining town.
Zdroj foto: Darina Rojíková
A Heritage That Needs Our Care
The tajchy water management system is unique in its scale, technical design and historical importance. It is part of the Banská Štiavnica and its surroundings, which have been inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List since 1993. Today, many parts of the system are neglected and in need of restoration. In many cases, volunteering is the only realistic way to preserve this heritage – not only for historians, but above all for future generations.
This activity also confirmed that the academic community can play a key role not only in research and education, but also in the practical protection of cultural and natural heritage.
Zdroj foto: Darina Rojíková
Shared Experience, Shared Responsibility
For the participants, the volunteering day was much more than physical work. At the start of the day, Michal Červeň, chairman of the civic association Štiavnický Tajch, gave a brief talk about the history and significance of the Banská Štiavnica water management system, and its relevance for sustainability in the 21st century.
In addition to the pleasant atmosphere and teamwork, participants left with a sense of solidarity, new friendships, and a deeper connection to the landscape where we live and work.
Zdroj foto: Darina Rojíková
Projects That Deliver Results
This volunteering initiative was part of the international project SECreTour, funded by the Horizon Europe programme, and the national project Mining Treasures, supported through the Recovery and Resilience Plan of the Slovak Republic. The activities were coordinated by UMB Engage, a platform that connects academic education, research and civic engagement with social challenges and regional needs.
SECreTour project (2024-2027) is financed by the Horizon Europe programme of the European Union. Financed under GA No. 101132584
Funded by the EU NextGenerationEU through the Recovery and Resilience Plan for Slovakia under the project Banícke poklady No. 09I01-03-V04-00051/2024/VA
