UNESCO issues technical referral for Spain's Ribeira Sacra World Heritage bid

The UNESCO World Heritage Committee gave a technical referral – not a deferral – to the Ribeira Sacra candidacy in Galicia, Spain. The decision was adopted in the 48th session (resolution 48 COM 8B 30) after a block of 15 countries led by Peru pushed for the referral. Spain will avoid restarting the file and must submit additional documentation.

UNESCO outlined three mandatory tasks: clarify the site's attributes, complete an inventory of its water‑culture heritage, and deepen the historical evolution narrative. It also recommended continued implementation of the management plan, stronger coordination with the Ribeira Sacra Biosphere Reserve, support for demographic revitalisation and traditional agriculture, biodiversity and water‑resource measures, and greater community participation. An ICOMOS advisory mission will be sent to assist the Spanish authorities and the Xunta de Galicia in the final stages of the nomination process.