⛏ Mponeng Gold Mine

Mponeng is an ultra-deep tabular gold mine in South Africa in the Witwatersrand Basin of the Gauteng Province. Previously known as Western Deep Levels No1 Shaft, the mine began operations in 1986. It is one of the most substantial gold mines in the world in terms of both production and magnitude, reaching over 4 kilometres (2.5 mi) below the surface. Mponeng is the world's deepest mine from ground level, and there are aims to deepen the mine beyond 4km to reach more reserves. A trip from the surface to its deepest point takes over an hour. An Ecuadorian marathon runner completed a half marathon within the mine in 2017. The mine supports a very large number of people, companies and industries, including entire towns and cities.