Mining tourism in geographically disadvantaged territories in Castile and Leon: recovery of industrial heritage and options for local development

Mining activity in the Autonomous Community of Castile and Leon has been very diverse throughout history in relation both to the exploitation of multiple mineral and geological resources, and in terms of geographic location. Mining activities have left numerous scars on the land, unique habitats and new forms of cultural landscapes, and also a mark on the collective memory visible in the way of life of the population. The remains of the closed and abandoned mines, especially those located in disadvantaged and peripheral zones of the region are now "complex heritage units" and, simultaneously, an endogenous resource with multiple options for social, economic and territorial activation at local level.