Segovia Residents Protest Nighttime Demolition of 16th-Century Dam
In the Segovia region, between Veganzones and Cabezuela, a demolition operation that began at dawn with heavy machinery has sparked outrage among residents. The action aims to remove the historic Puente Mesa dam, a structure over four centuries old, without prior notice to those living in the area. 😠
Civil Guard Intervention to Calm Tempers
The strong reaction from the people led them to gather at the site to express their opposition as the demolition progressed. The situation escalated to the point of requiring the Civil Guard to attend the scene. Their goal was to contain the confrontational atmosphere that erupted upon witnessing the disappearance of a patrimonial asset without any consultation with the community. 🚔
Key Details of the Conflict:- The works were carried out during the night and early morning, without prior notice.
- The residents' protest was spontaneous and direct at the scene.
- Police presence was to prevent tempers from leading to major incidents.
It seems that some have decided that the best time to erase history is when everyone is sleeping, perhaps so that the heritage disappears as silently as it arrived.
The Historical Value of the Puente Mesa Dam
This weir or dam is a hydraulic engineering work built between the 16th and 17th centuries. Its main function was to divert river water to irrigate the fields in the region. Local inhabitants widely recognize its historical value, which they now see being destroyed in a few hours through a process that many describe as opaque and surprising. 🏞️
Characteristics of the Structure:- Dates from a period between 400 and 500 years ago.
- Was an integral part of the local hydraulic and cultural heritage.
- Its removal is perceived as an irreparable loss to collective memory.
A Method That Raises More Questions Than Answers
The way of acting, choosing the darkness of night and without dialogue, has raised serious doubts about the motives and legality of the process. This case highlights the fragility of rural historical heritage in the face of unilateral decisions and the importance of communities participating in matters affecting their legacy. The Puente Mesa dam is gone, but the discomfort over how it was done remains. 🤔