Rural depopulation in Spain drives abandonment of villages

Spain is facing a significant trend of rural depopulation, leaving numerous villages abandoned or in a state of decay. This phenomenon is driven by a combination of factors, including rural-to-urban migration for employment, economic shifts such as the closure of mines and changes in agricultural practices, and infrastructure projects like the construction of dams that necessitated the relocation of residents.

While many areas suffer from a lack of services and difficult access, some individuals are attempting to preserve these locations. In Asturias, a 39-year-old man named Álvaro has dedicated himself to maintaining a nearly uninhabited mountain village to prevent its history from being lost. His efforts include the upkeep of a family home dating back to 1794, highlighting the challenges of preserving historical architecture against humidity and lack of modern infrastructure.