Spain Recognizes Traditional Irrigation Systems as Intangible Cultural Heritage
The Royal Decree, put forth by Culture Minister Ernest Urtasun, was sanctioned by the Spanish Council of Ministers, designating 'Los sistemas históricos y tradicionales de regadío' (SHTR) as a Manifestación Representativa del Patrimonio Cultural Inmaterial. This recognition, established under Law 10/2015 dated May 26, aims to preserve traditional irrigation methods as significant cultural heritage. It ensures the protection of these practices while leaving the legal framework for related assets unchanged, without impacting water, agriculture, environment, or territorial governance. Acknowledged by UNESCO in 2023, these systems are increasingly threatened by rural depopulation and an aging population, despite their economic, social, and environmental importance to community identity.
Key facts
- The Spanish Council of Ministers approved a Royal Decree recognizing traditional irrigation systems as Intangible Cultural Heritage.
- The proposal was made by the Minister of Culture, Ernest Urtasun.
- The declaration is made under Law 10/2015 of May 26, for the Safeguarding of Intangible Cultural Heritage.
- The systems are called 'Los sistemas históricos y tradicionales de regadío' (SHTR).
- The declaration does not alter the legal regime of associated material goods or affect sectoral competencies.
- Traditional irrigation was included in 2023 in the UNESCO Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.
- The UNESCO nomination was presented by Austria, Germany, Belgium, Italy, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, and Switzerland.
- Spain may join this recognition in the future.
Entities
Institutions
- Spanish Council of Ministers
- Ministry of Culture
- UNESCO
Locations
- Spain
- Austria
- Germany
- Belgium
- Italy
- Luxembourg
- Netherlands
- Switzerland