Cultural landscape: new dimensions in the mining landscape

This research project has produced comparative mapping from which to observe new horizons for mining landscapes. The goal of the project is to identify the landscape’s potential and use this to embark on the urgent task of re-programming spaces that have fallen into decline and re-activating places that have lost their social and economic relevance. This responsibility not only involves diligent environmental awareness and a purposeful commitment to innovation and research into new intervention possibilities, but also a high level of cautious sensitivity.

The research is based on a selection of mining locations as a sample and case study: Beriain (Navarre), Portmán (Murcia), Riotinto (Huelva), Gallarta (Biscay), Nalón (Asturias) and Almadén (Ciudad Real). By observing these landscapes, from the smallest to the very broadest scales, intangible systems of perception have been revealed that shape their cultural identity. In turn, this enables us to find beauty lying dormant beneath its apparent state of ruin.

Ultimately, this project is scanning the area for the criteria and future potential of a cultural landscape by tapping into the memory of the place, looking to the future by rethinking it and looking back at the past.