The industrial history of Peñarroya-Pueblonuevo is brought to life at the protected Antiguo Cerco Industrial, in individual buildings and at the museum. The Cerco is protected as an Asset of Cultural Interest (Bien de Interés Cultural) in the “Lugar de Interés Industrial” category. It is associated with lead and coal mining and is considered one of the finest examples of Andalusia’s mining industry in the 19th and 20th centuries. Thirteen chimneys still stand there. Since the 19th century, the town’s development and changes to its landscape and social life have been linked to coal mining and the railway.

Industrial History in the Urban Landscape

A visit to the industrial heritage takes in the Barrio Francés and the Almacén Central. Check in advance whether this visit is available on your chosen date. The Barrio Francés once consisted of houses for S.M.M.P. directors; many of its exterior façades have retained their original style. The Vía Verde offers another perspective: it connects the Barrio Francés with the town center of Pueblonuevo and passes significant elements of the industrial heritage. This brings not only individual buildings into focus, but also a route and its connection between two parts of the town.

Church and Architecture

The Iglesia de Santa Bárbara adds a different architectural note. It has a taller central nave with a barrel vault and two lower side aisles. Another detail is the 18th-century altarpiece, which came from the Sagrario church in the Mezquita-Catedral de Córdoba. Its provenance gives the building a specific link to Córdoba, while details about the naves and vault make the church’s layout tangible.

Geology at the Museo Geológico-Minero

The Museo Geológico-Minero is housed in La Yutera, designed by Eiffel. The museum presents the town’s geological history, a wide variety of rocks and minerals, and the tools used to extract them. It also offers an extensive annual program of talks, educational workshops, guided tours and geological excursions. If you want to attend a specific event, check the dates in advance. You can then tailor your visit to the collection or to a program event.

Landscape, Geology and Special Access Requirements

The Ruta Geodiversidad de Peñarroya-Pueblonuevo y Belmez introduces visitors to topics such as the region’s landscapes, flora and fauna, geology, mineralogy, fossils and mining heritage. The ascent to the Peñón offers sweeping views over the Guadiato Valley and Peñarroya-Pueblonuevo. Schematic paintings can be viewed at the Abrigo de la Virgen; access requires a permit from Peñarroya-Pueblonuevo Town Hall. Confirm the permit and access requirements with the town hall before your visit. To choose a theme, note that the Cerco and Vía Verde showcase traces of industry, while the Ruta Geodiversidad focuses on geology, mineralogy, fossils, flora and fauna.

Discover more destinations: Pozoblanco, La Carlota, Hornachuelos, Lucena, Cardeña, Priego De Córdoba, Montemayor, Luque.

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