A conflict is brewing in Aranjuez, located in the south of the Madrid autonomous community, over the city’s future as a World Heritage site. Four large-scale solar power plants planned for the municipality and its surroundings could jeopardize Aranjuez’s unique status as a cultural landscape recognized by UNESCO.
The city, famous for its historic gardens, palaces, and architecture, gained international recognition in 2001. However, new infrastructure projects extending beyond the historic center and into the so-called buffer zone have raised concerns among heritage preservation experts. This buffer zone, which surrounds the main attractions, is meant to safeguard the visual and natural balance that was key to Aranjuez’s inclusion on the UNESCO list.
Solar Power Plants vs. Cultural Landscape: Clash of Interests
The planned projects — Las Fresas, Tagus 1, Envatios XXII Fase II, and Los Pradillos — will partially affect land in neighboring municipalities such as Ocaña, Ontígola, and Colmenar de Oreja. Although the projects have already received positive environmental assessments and preliminary administrative approvals, experts warn that their implementation will cause irreversible changes to the landscape.
In recent decades, Aranjuez has received numerous protective statuses at both regional and national levels. Specifically, the historic center of the city and its surroundings have been recognized as sites of cultural interest, while individual buildings and parks have been declared architectural monuments. In 2023, the protected area was expanded to include the dehesa de Sotomayor and Casa de la Monta. However, the buffer zone, where the construction of power plants is planned, still does not have such strict protection.
Experts demand immediate action
Heritage specialists insist that any large infrastructure projects in the buffer zone could compromise the integrity and authenticity of the landscape. According to them, the appearance of industrial facilities would lead to the loss of the very natural and historical features that earned Aranjuez its prestigious status. If these projects go forward, the city risks being removed from the UNESCO list, which would be a serious blow to its international image and tourist appeal.
Experts are urging the Ministry of Culture and regional authorities to intervene immediately and reconsider plans to build solar power stations. They are also calling for expanded protection status across the entire municipality and amendments to urban planning documents to ensure long-term preservation of the cultural landscape. The Colmenar de Oreja municipality is advised to take action to prevent construction in its territory.
The Future of Aranjuez: Innovation or Heritage at Stake
The situation in Aranjuez highlights a broader conflict between the development of renewable energy and the need to preserve unique historical and natural sites. The challenge of balancing modern technology with the protection of cultural heritage is becoming increasingly relevant for Spain. The decision made in the near future will determine not only the fate of Aranjuez but also the country’s overall approach to innovation versus tradition.
