Opened in 1937, Mine 2b, established by Store Norske Spitsbergen Kulkompani, operated until 1968, offering stable working conditions with a 70 cm to 1 m coal seam. Unlike other closed mines, Mine 2b’s entrance remains visible from the road, earning it the nickname “Nissegruva” or the elf mine.
Locals believe it’s Santa’s secret workshop, a tradition celebrated on the first Advent with a torch-lit march to drop wish lists at a post box. A lit Christmas tree crowns the mine entrance, brightening the dark season.
