In the very heart of verdant Galicia, where the mighty Sil and Miño rivers carve their way through ancient rock, creating breathtaking canyons, the finale of a long-standing saga unfolds. The region, known as Ribeira Sacra, or “Sacred Riverside”, stands on the threshold of receiving the highest international recognition. This marks the culmination of a long and arduous journey that began in the last century and is now nearing its logical conclusion. The entire country, from local residents to top officials, is anxiously watching the process that will determine the fate of this unique corner in the north of the Iberian Peninsula.
A journey spanning thirty years
The pursuit of world recognition did not begin yesterday. Back in the 1990s, the exceptional value of this land, dotted with ancient monasteries and hermitages, was realized. It was then that key sites such as San Pedro de Rocas and Santo Estevo de Ribas de Sil received national protected status. This became a starting point for large-scale efforts: scientific research was conducted, architectural landmarks were restored, and wine tourism routes were developed—since the local vineyards, clinging heroically to the steep slopes, are themselves a monument to human labor. A special technical commission was created to inventory everything related to water—from ancient mills and canals to public laundries—as well as their harmonious integration with the section of the Camino de Santiago that passes through here, known as the Winter Way.
Learning from mistakes and a new approach
The first official application, submitted in 2019, was not successful. The advisory body of the international monument protection organization (ICOMOS) prepared a report highlighting specific shortcomings in territorial management and unclear boundaries. This could have been the end of the story, but instead it marked the beginning of a new, more meaningful phase. A strategic decision was made to completely reshape the bid. From 2022 to 2023, about fifteen seminars were held throughout the comarca, where the voices of local residents, winemakers, and guides played a decisive role. This painstaking work not only addressed previous shortcomings but also significantly enriched the very concept, shifting the focus to the inseparable connection between culture and water. As a result, an updated, more comprehensive application was created, and the nominated area itself was expanded to include new coastal sections and ancient forests.
The final stage before the global assessment
The updated dossier, which received unanimous support at all levels within the country—from the Historical Council to the central government—was officially submitted to the Paris headquarters of the profile center in February 2025. Now the region is preparing for the most crucial test: the visit of international experts. Their arrival is scheduled for this autumn, and it is their assessment that will form the basis of the final conclusion. The ultimate decision will be made at the session of the World Heritage Committee, which will take place in Chengdu, China, in 2026. The atmosphere is filled with cautious optimism, as tremendous work has been done and all previous remarks have been taken into account.
A united front and hopes for the future
The current candidacy is based on an unprecedented consolidation of efforts. It enjoys the support of absolutely everyone: the Xunta of Galicia, the provincial authorities of Lugo and Ourense, as well as the mayors of all 26 municipalities that make up Ribeira Sacra. Spain’s ambassador to the relevant UN organization, Miquel Iceta, personally expressed his deep admiration for this place, highlighting its uniqueness. If the outcome is positive, the “Sacred Shore” will not just be added to the prestigious list. It will receive a powerful boost for development, becoming a model of sustainable tourism and careful management of unique water and cultural heritage for all of Europe. This will open a new chapter in its centuries-old history.
