During theSecond World War, while the world seemed to collapse far beyond the valley, afew adventurers from Rossens explored the cliffs bordering the Domained’Illens. There, within the dark, layered rock, they noticed a stone unlike the others, almost black. Could it be coal?
Driven by curiosity and the hope of discovering hidden wealth, they dug, hammered and probed the cliff face, convinced they might uncover a vein capable of supplying Fribourg and its inhabitants with energy at a time when coal was a precious resource throughout the region. Yet the rock proved barren. The dreams ofwould-be miners met a harsh reality: the cliff would not reveal its secrets.
During the war years, coal was essential for heating, industry and energy production. Although Switzerland was already industrialised, it relied heavily on imports. As the conflict disrupted supply routes, any potential local deposit suddenly appeared highly valuable, fuelling both ambition and imagination in places like Illens.
Sources:
- Illens Castle Association
