Feb 28 • 04:30 UTC 🇪🇸 Spain El País

The Community of Madrid justifies to the Ombudsman that it has no means to protect 220 BIC buildings

The Community of Madrid has informed the Ombudsman that it lacks the resources needed to protect 220 cultural heritage buildings, including the historically significant Monastery of Santa María de la Real de Valdeiglesias.

The Community of Madrid has presented its justification to the Ombudsman explaining that due to insufficient resources, it is unable to provide adequate protection for 220 buildings designated as Bien de Interés Cultural (BIC) across the region. This issue highlights the ongoing struggle to maintain and safeguard the rich cultural heritage found within Madrid, particularly lesser-known sites that are not included in major tourism plans. One representative case is the Monastery of Santa María de la Real de Valdeiglesias, the oldest monastery in the region, founded in 1150. Despite its designation as a cultural asset in 1984, the monastery lacks not only a proper maintenance plan but also a protective area surrounding its premises, which raises concerns about its preservation and recognition among residents and tourists alike. While renowned sites like the Monastery of El Escorial and the Royal Palace are well-maintained, many other cultural gems in the Community of Madrid face neglect and minimal visibility. The situation emphasizes the challenges that officials face in addressing the urgent need for funding and resources dedicated to historic preservation, which plays a crucial role in maintaining the identity and heritage of the region.

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