High Mountain Mining Heritage of the Picos de Europa (Northern Spain). Las Gramas mining complex, conservation and potential use as a geotourism resource

Abstract

The Picos de Europa National Park (PENP) has a strong mining background, with heritage features influencing the high mountain mining landscapes. Those mining scenarios have been altered by abandonment and natural forces, leaving behind remnants of mining activity and a largely naturalized landscape. There are still signs of mining operations on the surface and underground the Las Gramas mining complex, which was abandoned more than a century ago. The mining heritage consists of the now-ruins of the constructed heritage, the subterranean gallery system, and the communication and transit networks. It is noteworthy that certain galleries and underground mining infrastructures, along with components like tools, stoppers, baskets, etc., have been well preserved. To understand the mining complex as a whole—from extraction work to treatment and transportation to the landscape—this work reconstructs mining tasks, their organization, and their evolution over time and space. It is achieved by integrating the mining heritage both inside and outside with the natural environment. A hiking route led by interpreters who can provide a sustainable and low-impact sociocultural experience is included as a future use idea, which enhances the PENP visitors’ experience. Combined with the expertise of the PENP landscapes and the resources of local guides, nature interpreters, and tourists, the Las Gramas mining complex has substantial cultural and geotouristic potential.

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