Understanding Spain’s Industrial Revolution through La Concepción Ironworks
The Real Hospital de la Misericordia will host a course from the UNED (National University of Distance Education) from September 26 to October 17. The course, titled ‘Marbella, a key (and forgotten) city in the industrial revolution in Spain (and the world)’, will highlight the city’s role in the country’s industrial development. The course will take place over four consecutive Tuesdays.
Collaboration with the University of Malaga and the City Council
The initiative also involves the University of Malaga (UMA) and has the collaboration of the City Council with the two academic institutions. Luis Grau, the director of the UNED in Malaga, stated that the training action is part of the university’s Autumn Courses and features prominent researchers and teachers from both educational organizations. He assured that the excellence of the course is guaranteed.
Highlighting the Importance of Marbella in the Industrial Revolution
On the other hand, the coordinator of the workshop, Olga Guerrero, stated that this is an informative course “in which we want to emphasize the importance of our region, especially Marbella, in the development of the industrial revolution in Spain”. She recalled that the first civilian blast furnaces to start operating, led by businessman Manuel Agustín Heredia, were located in the municipality, known as La Concepción. By the mid-19th century, 70 percent of the country’s steel production came from the province, with the municipality playing a prominent role.
Marbella’s Role in the 19th Century Steel Industry
“This course will highlight the importance of Marbella in the 19th-century steel industry in Spain, hosting the country’s first blast furnaces,” said the mayor, Ángeles Muñoz. Those interested in attending the training action can do so in person and online. More information and registration can be found at this link.
