El Granado – Industrial History, Mill and Vía Verde

At Puerto de La Laja, the loading quay and the town centre of Puerto de La Laja are protected as Bien de Interés Cultural. Their typology is “Lugar de Interés Industrial”. The original mineral loading quay at Puerto de La Laja has demonstrably been in operation as such since 1858.

Culture

The industrial heritage of La Laja and El Sardón is located in the municipality of El Granado. It represents the transport, loading and storage activities associated with mining. The period covered by this industrial heritage extends from the end of the 19th century to the second half of the 20th century. Thus, these sites preserve evidence not only of individual structures but also of the processes of a bygone mining economy: raw materials were transported, loaded at the quay and subsequently stored.

The Molino de Viento de La Solana is a traditional windmill in the municipality of El Granado. The windmill was restored in 1996 and demonstrates the operation of historic mills. It preserves original elements as well as equipment associated with the work of millers. The Molino has been prepared for visits. Its exterior can be visited, as can its interior. During a visit, traditional equipment, original parts of the mill and agricultural implements can be seen. Thus, both the structural components and the working tools of historic mills are the focus at the Molino.

The Feria de Artesanía of El Granado has been held since 2004. It showcases handcrafted products, cultural heritage and folkloric performances. Thus, the event focuses on both handicrafts and cultural and folkloric contributions.

Further destinations can be accessed via Palos De La Frontera, Villalba Del Alcor, Puerto de la Laja, Villablanca, Encinasola, Huelva, Punta Umbría and Moguer.

Routes

The Vía Verde del Guadiana is a 17 km-long route. Its features include a tunnel and three rest areas. The route is accessible on foot and can be used by mountain bike. The Vía Verde is also accessible on horseback. It is also possible to use it in a wheelchair. The various types of use mentioned make the former railway line accessible today to pedestrians, mountain bikers, horse riders and wheelchair users.

The Vía Verde del Guadiana follows the route of the former mining railway. This mining railway connected the Mina de las Herrerías with Puerto de La Laja. Its present-day route is therefore linked to the former connection between the Mina de las Herrerías and Puerto de La Laja.

Landscape

The Presa de la Chanza is located within the municipality of El Granado. In the El Granado area, the Guadiana forms a natural border with Portugal due to its geographical location. El Granado can be reached via the HV-2121.

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