Discover what Red Eléctrica is, what we do, and why we are the backbone of the electricity system in Spain and the ecological transition.
Cultural Heritage
Cultural Heritage
The prehistory and history of the Iberian Peninsula, a melting pot of civilisations, boasts an enormously rich heritage that must be preserved for future generations.
We preserve our cultural heritage
We assess the potential impact of our projects on cultural heritage with all available means, and go beyond legal requirements to contribute to the care, conservation, and enhancement of cultural and historical heritage and legacy.
Archaeological survey prior to the start of the works
The protection of cultural heritage is a fundamental factor in the design and construction of Red Eléctrica facilities. Before commencing any earthworks, the company conducts an archaeological survey of the site and designs the infrastructure to minimise any potential impact.
Continuous presence of an archaeologist on-site during earthworks when required by survey results
During the works, the archaeologist ensures compliance with preventive and corrective measures:
- Avoiding impact on and protecting elements of the cultural heritage present.
- Conducting excavation when necessary to catalogue and, if required, restore these cultural assets.
For example, we intervened to protect a Roman aqueduct in Can Maltat (Ibiza) during the construction of the 132 KV electricity interconnection cable between Ibiza and Formentera. We also protected a Celtiberian site of significant heritage value in Langa de Duero (Soria) during maintenance work on the 400 kV Mudarra-Almazán line.
Digital cartography with catalogued heritage information for consultation
Through the ArqueoRED project, we have mapped the national cultural heritage that coexists with transport infrastructures to ensure the responsible maintenance of the grid. By consulting this information, we define the necessary measures in each case before undertaking work on the facilities. Additionally, we collaborate with public administrations and territorial entities through agreements, to whom we cede the use and custody of this valuable work.
In 2023, on a voluntary basis, we digitised and geo-referenced the heritage of Castile-La Mancha, obtaining nearly 56,000 references. Throughout 2024, we will replicate this initiative in Andalusia.
Key figures
We generate value for society
We collaborate in the conservation, restoration, and dissemination of knowledge related to the actions we undertake to showcase the richness of our heritage to the world.
Scientific dissemination
We participate in informative publications in collaboration with experts and the scientific community.
Restoration
We work on dating and museum curation of archaeological and palaeontological remains and materials of interest.
Documentation
We protect and conserve cultural heritage, adding value with unpublished finds included in official archaeological catalogues and records, to ensure their survival.
Awareness
We organise awareness and volunteer days with employees and their families, as well as training workshops to promote our heritage wherever we are present.
Vida de ecosistema terrestre
Los principales impactos ambientales de Red Eléctrica son los que se derivan de la presencia de las instalaciones en el territorio. Por ello, la compañía trabaja intensamente para hacer que dichas instalaciones estén totalmente integradas en el entorno y territorios en los que desarrolla su actividad, considerando todo su ciclo de vida y prestando especial atención a la conservación de la biodiversidad.
Notable projects
Here are some of our most outstanding and recent heritage projects.
