Limestone was mined in the past using various methods, some of which are:

1. Quarrying: This involves identifying and excavating large rock formations that are rich in limestone. The rocks are then crushed and transported to processing plants where they are turned into products such as cement and building materials.

2. Underground mining: This method involves digging tunnels and shafts underground to reach the limestone deposits. Miners would then use explosives and other equipment to break the rock formations and extract the limestone.

3. Strip mining: This method is used when limestone deposits are found near the surface. It involves removing the topsoil and layers of earth to expose the limestone. Heavy machinery is used to extract the limestone from the ground.

4. Drilling and blasting: This involves drilling holes into the limestone and filling them with explosives. The explosives are then detonated to break the rock formations and extract the limestone.