The breathtaking Italian marble quarries of the Apuan Alps have a long history in Italian culture and remain essential to the country’s industries. For centuries, artisans have been masterfully crafting this marble into sculptures, tiles, and flooring for interior designers, architects, and real estate developers from around the world. Today Italian marble continues to be the material of choice for those who seek beauty and quality in their works. Here are some facts about the marble quarries of the Apuan Alps.
1. They Have Over 2000 Years of History
The Apuan Alps’ marble quarries have been a source of inspiration for many for over two millennia. From the ancient Romans to Michelangelo, Italian marble has been used in some of the most significant works of art and architecture throughout Italian culture.
2. Ceramic Tile Remains Popular Today
Ceramic tile made from Italian marble remains a popular choice for floors, walls, and other surfaces. According to Ceramic Tile and Stone Consultants, it accounted for 12.5 percent of total U.S. floor coverings dollar sales of $18.76 billion in 2019.
3. They’re Among the Largest Marble Quarries in the World
The Apuan Alps are some of the largest Italian marble quarries in the world, with a total area of over 3000 hectares. In terms of production, it’s estimated that these quarries generate nearly 5 million tons of Italian marble every year.
4. Marble Is Extracted Using Multiple Techniques
The Italian marble is extracted from the quarry using several methods, including drilling, cutting, and blasting. The most common technique today is diamond wire cutting, which allows for greater precision and efficiency.
5. There’s a Specialized Finishing and Transporting Process
Once it has been extracted, the marble is carefully processed to give it a polished finish. The marble is then transported to a workshop where it’s cut and shaped into tiles, sculptures, or other products for commercial use.
6. They’re Environmentally Friendly
The quarries of the Apuan Alps are committed to sustainable practices. They use eco-friendly extraction techniques, transport the marble with electric vehicles, and replace any vegetation that’s destroyed in the process.
The Italian marble quarries of the Apuan Alps are a testament to Italy’s long-standing tradition of craftsmanship and quality. From ancient Rome to the modern day, Italian marble is part of some of the most beautiful works of art and architecture throughout Italian culture. It remains essential material for interior designers, architects, and real estate developers who seek its beauty and quality. Of course, this is far from the only type of stone that can add immense aesthetic value to your home. If you’re looking for ways to add style and class to your décor, take a look at Ceramic Matrix’s extensive collection of natural stone slabs.
