The emery of Naxos: archival project

Emery mines of Naxos have been declared preserved by the Ministry of Culture and are considered one of the most important monuments of the modern industrial history of Greece. For many years, emery has been one of the most important Greek minerals and Naxos was the only emery-producing area in Europe. The deposits are found in the northeastern mountainous side of the island, around the villages Apeiranthos and Koronos.

Aerial railway line for transporting emery to the port of Moutsouna, constructed in 1925, set in a lush landscape near Apeiranthos © Christos Chrysantopoulos, 2013.

My research focuses on the industrial history and archives related to the smyrida (emery) mines of Naxos, Greece. It highlights the importance of archival materials in studying the historical, economic, and social aspects of the mining industry. The work is based on a research effort that led to the classification of records from the Directorate of Smyrida Mines of Naxos, now housed in the Local Archive of Naxos (General State Archives).

Smyrida Miners' Identity Cards - GSA © Christos Chrysantopoulos, 2013.

The smyrida (emery) mines of Naxos represent an essential part of the island’s industrial and economic history. Smyrida, a black mineral known for its durability, was widely used in metallurgy for grinding, polishing, and cutting metals, gemstones, and glass. Naxos became synonymous with smyrida extraction due to the high quality of its deposits, making it one of the few places in the world with systematic mining operations.

The history of smyrida mining on the island dates back to antiquity, with evidence of early exploitation and trade. During the Venetian and Ottoman periods (13th-18th centuries), smyrida extraction was controlled by feudal landlords who regulated mining activities, keeping local miners in a serf-like status. By the late 18th century, Ottoman authorities granted local communities more autonomy over smyrida mining. Following Greek independence in the 19th century, smyrida became a state-controlled monopoly. Various laws, including those passed in 1850 and 1861, reinforced government control, while local miners retained the exclusive right to extract the mineral under strict state regulations.

Throughout the 20th century, smyrida mining experienced periods of growth and decline. The construction of an aerial cableway between 1926 and 1929 marked a major technological advancement, allowing more efficient transportation of smyrida from the mountainous regions to the coastal port of Moutsouna. However, global competition and the rise of synthetic abrasives led to a gradual decline in demand. After World War II, the industry struggled to survive, and by the late 20th century, mining operations had mostly ceased.

Local Archive of Naxos - GSA © Christos Chrysantopoulos, 2013.

The archival collection housed in the Local Archive of Naxos (GAK) provides invaluable documentation on the history of smyrida mining. Consisting of 140 folders and 120 ledgers, the records cover legal, economic, industrial, and labor-related aspects of mining from 1918 to 2010. These materials include government regulations, financial records, mining operation logs, labor contracts, and engineering documents related to the aerial cableway. The collection also contains geological surveys, production reports, and employment records detailing wages, insurance policies, and worker disputes.

The archive offers a comprehensive perspective on the socio-economic impact of smyrida mining in Naxos. It sheds light on state policies, local labor conditions, technological advancements, and the economic significance of the industry. Moreover, the archival materials serve as a valuable resource for interdisciplinary research in industrial history, economic development, and labor studies.

Beyond academic research, the archive holds potential for educational initiatives in local history and environmental studies. By analyzing the records, students and scholars can gain insights into the relationship between industry, labor, and government policy over time. Additionally, the collection can contribute to the preservation and promotion of Naxos' industrial heritage, ensuring that future generations recognize the historical significance of smyrida mining.

In conclusion, the smyrida mines of Naxos played a crucial role in shaping the island’s industrial past. The extensive archival records provide a rich source of information on the history of mining, the working conditions of miners, and the broader economic and social transformations associated with the industry. By preserving and studying these documents, researchers and educators can continue to explore the impact of smyrida mining on both local and national levels.