Housed in the former hard coal mine 'Karl Liebknecht' in Oelsnitz/Erzgeb., this museum offers a rare chance to step into the world of Saxon coal mining. Massive winding machines, an authentic miners' washroom and a faithfully recreated underground section make this one of the most immersive mining museums in the region.

The site has an unmistakable industrial character: steel headframes, steam and electric hoisting engines, and outdoor grounds with a historic steam locomotive create an atmosphere heavy with the memory of hard labor underground. Following an extensive renovation completed in January 2025, the museum reopened under its new name KohleWelt, with a fully reworked permanent exhibition. Whether visiting on a grey winter day or a sunny afternoon, the industrial halls and outdoor exhibits offer a striking contrast to the surrounding Erzgebirge landscape.

• Oelsnitz/Erzgebirge town centre - reachable by car or public transport, flat and accessible museum grounds

• Exhibition in the former pay-hall, surface area with large machinery including a Leonard converter and electric tower hoisting machine, and a recreated underground section in the former washroom
• Historic steam locomotive BR 52 8199-3, purchased by the museum in 1996 and restored externally in 1997/1998
• Since November 2025, the site hosts James Turrell's permanent light installation 'Beyond Horizons', the artist's largest permanent Ganzfeld to date
• Associated site of the UNESCO World Heritage Erzgebirge/Krušnohoří Mining Region since June 2017

In February 2015 the museum welcomed its one-millionth visitor since opening in 1986, a testament to its enduring popularity.