With the abandonment of mining operations over 1800 years ago and the passing of time, nature has gradually taken over this landscape that was shaped by the extractive activity.
Las Médulas World Heritage Site
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The native vegetation reclaimed the land, leaving a remarkable covering of greenery. The prevailing Mediterranean climate, softened by the Atlantic influence, led to a wealth of vegetation covering the working faces and other old mining structures and ledges. This vegetation did not, however, take root on the walls of the sharp peaks. Amongst the greenery and pointing up to the sky, reddish conglomerates and clays appear in the form of beautiful peaks and orange rock columns or picuezos.
It is a beautiful landscape full of colourful contrasts. Depending on the time of day and the season, the light causes its tones to change, illuminating the mineral textures in different ways and highlighting the freshness of the vegetation where animals such as roe deer, wild boar and wild cats take refuge.
In 1991, Las Médulas became part of the network of Protected Natural Areas of Castilla y León, when the space was declared a Natural Monument. A peripheral protection zone was also added. Within the Montes Aquilianos, Las Médulas is a Special Protection Area for Birds (known as ZEPA in Spain), included in the world’s largest network of protected natural areas—the Natura 2000 Network—due to the important role played by Lake Carucedo for water birds.
Inspiration for your trip
Walking the trails of the Cultural and Natural Space of Las Médulas is probably the most fun and rewarding way to explore its landscapes.
The best way to get to know Las Médulas is to enjoy its surroundings, its striking landscape and heritage assets.
Your visit to Las Médulas has to start somewhere, and what better place to do it than from one of its viewpoints.
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