Lom Šífr - Svobodné Heřmanice

The Šífr quarry, located near the small Czech village of Svobodné Heřmanice, is a must-visit destination for divers. Situated approximately 140 km from Žilina, near Opava, this slate quarry offers a splendid diving experience. With dimensions of around 500 meters in length and 30-70 meters in width, the quarry reaches depths of up to 36 meters. It is worth noting that this underwater paradise sits at an altitude of 450 meters above sea level.

One of the main attractions at the Šífr quarry is the fascinating flooded diving caisson. This site also boasts other interesting features such as a well and a telephone booth. Additionally, divers can encounter various species of fish and crayfish, adding to the allure of exploring this underwater marvel.

Diving in Svobodné Heřmanice is a truly extraordinary experience, catering to divers of all levels, from beginners to experts. The site holds historical significance as it previously served as a test and research area for Czechoslovak divers. Many diving apparatuses were tested here, and numerous research dives were conducted, particularly focusing on the study of human behavior during extended underwater stays. As a result of these research endeavors, a caisson was submerged at a depth of 18 meters, designed to enable longer durations underwater. To this day, the caisson remains accessible to divers. However, it is essential to exercise caution and adhere to safety measures. Upon surfacing in the caisson, it is crucial to breathe only through the regulator, as the atmosphere within the caisson lacks sufficient oxygen due to corrosion.

Despite being challenging due to year-round lower water temperatures and depths exceeding 30 meters, diving at this quarry is still sought after by Czech and Polish diving schools as part of their basic Open Water Diver (OWD) courses. The coordinates for this exceptional diving spot are N49 56.450, E017 39.385.

For divers seeking an awe-inspiring adventure, the Šífr quarry in Svobodné Heřmanice, Czechia, offers an unforgettable experience. With a visibility of approximately 6 meters, maximum depths reaching 28 meters, and catering to divers of all levels, this dive site is a hidden gem waiting to be explored. Situated near the picturesque location of 4422, Staré Heřminovy, in the Bruntál district of Moravskoslezský kraj, Moravia-Silesia, Czechia, the quarry awaits divers with its captivating underwater world.