Convicts got a glimpse into the copper past of Banská Bystrica

The history of the city of Banská Bystrica is inextricably linked to mining. At the turn of the 15th and 16th centuries, local businessman Ján Thurzo, with the help of German banker Jakob Fugger, founded the Thurzo-Fugger Company, which became the world's largest producer of copper at that time.

Convicts from the exit department of the Banská Bystrica-Kráľová Correctional Institution had the opportunity to learn about the most glorious period of mining prosperity in Banská Bystrica during their September visit to the permanent interactive exhibition Thurzo-Fugger in the Municipal Castle area. The exhibition uses modern technologies, such as augmented or virtual reality, providing visitors with a unique experience. The convicts appreciated the interactive nature of the exhibition, the opportunity  to obtain information through "talking paintings," a virtual tour of the enterprise premises where copper was processed in the past, and they also got a glimpse into the mine gallery directly within the exhibition.

This unconventional historical excursion represented a welcome and inspiring break from the mundane prison stereotype for the convicts. The interactive digital elements drew them directly into the action and showed them that education can be an exciting experience. We believe that the combination of history and innovation served as a strong motivational impulse for the process of their further education after returning to civilian life.