On top of the Knutenfjellet (Mountain of the Knuten) close to Kongsberg you can find several small water-basins that were used to operate the mining elevators in earlier day. Ever since silver was found back in 1623, Kongsberg has been the center of silver-mining in Norway. At it's peak in 1770 more then 80 mines were operated.

The miners followed the vertical silver veins deep underground, which required lift and pump installations. Most of the equipment was powered by a water wheel driven by water out of the water-basins on top of the mountain.

Nowadays these basins offer a idyllic scene with crystal-clear water and a beautiful view.