Los canales de Las Médulas (León-España): razones para su inclusión en el Patrimonio de la Humanidad

The Roman gold mining complex at Las Médulas, declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1997, is renowned for its distinctive red peaks—residues of ancient extraction. However, recent research reveals that the site's true engineering marvel lies in its extensive canal network, spanning up to 700 km, which was overlooked in its initial recognition. These canals, essential for mountain derailing (arrugia) and gold recovery through washing channels, were first mapped in detail in 2004, with subsequent updates in 2008 and 2017. One canal, measuring 147 km, linked the Duero and Sil river basins, corroborating Pliny's accounts of 'cien millas.' The study demonstrates that mining ceased due to resource depletion, highlighting the canals' critical role in the site's operation. This work underscores the need for their inclusion in the heritage designation, given their indispensable contribution to Las Médulas' historical significance.

Matías Rodríguez, R. (2021). Los canales de Las Médulas (León-España): razones para su inclusión en el Patrimonio de la Humanidad. Revista Euroamericana de Antropología, (10), 131–161. https://doi.org/10.14201/rea202010131161