Transhumance: culture and nature

Transhumance is an ancestral farming practice that has formed part of the socio-economic fabric of Spain since time immemorial. This seasonal movement of herds in search of fresh pasture is not only of historical and cultural value, but also offers significant environmental and economic benefits.

In this article, we will look at transhumance from its origins to its current relevance, highlighting its importance for the wool and spinning sector, in which we are proud suppliers.

Origins and historical evolution

Transhumance dates back to pre-Roman times in the Iberian Peninsula, where the first pastoral communities began to move with their herds to take advantage of the natural resources of the different regions.

During the Middle Ages, this practice was consolidated, influencing the economy and society of the time, as it facilitated the production of wool, a highly coveted commodity. Over the centuries, transhumance has evolved, adapting to socio-economic and climatic changes.

Transhumance today

Today, transhumance is still alive in several regions of Spain, such as the Pyrenees, Sierra Nevada and the Picos de Europa. In these areas, shepherds continue to move with their herds, contributing to the local economy through the production of wool and other by-products.

New technologies have facilitated this practice, improving herd management and the shepherds' quality of life.

Benefits of transhumance

The benefits of transhumance are many and varied.

Environmentally, it helps maintain biodiversity and prevents forest fires through natural vegetation control.

Economically, it promotes rural development and tourism, as well as ensuring sustainable production of food and products such as wool, which is essential for our company.

Culturally, transhumance preserves traditions and ancestral knowledge, strengthening local identity and community pride.

Challenges and threats

Despite its benefits, transhumance faces several challenges.

Climate change affects grazing patterns and pasture availability.

Rural abandonment and population loss in mountainous areas complicate the continuation of the practice.

In addition, competition with intensive livestock farming and government policies often do not favour extensive livestock farming.

Support and promotion initiatives

To counter the challenges facing transhumance, various support and promotion initiatives have been implemented on multiple fronts.

Government programmes and subsidies play a key role, providing financial and technical resources that enable herders to modernise their practices and improve their herd management.

These programmes are often aimed at promoting sustainable rural development, supporting the necessary infrastructure and providing training in new technologies and pastoral techniques.

NGOs and local associations are also key actors in the promotion of transhumance. These organisations work hand in hand with rural communities, developing projects that not only seek to keep this tradition alive, but also to integrate it into the contemporary market.

Initiatives such as the creation of local brands for products derived from transhumance, including high quality wool and artisanal dairy products, have proven to be effective in revitalising the local economy and increasing the added value of these products in the market.

Successful examples from different regions of Spain show how transhumance can be revitalised through a holistic approach.

In the Pyrenees, for example, projects have been implemented that combine traditional pastoralism with rural tourism, offering visitors the opportunity to experience the life of a shepherd and understand the importance of this practice for the conservation of the landscape and biodiversity.

These projects not only generate additional income for pastoralists, but also raise public awareness of the importance of transhumance.

Education and public awareness are essential to ensure the future of transhumance. Educational programmes in schools and universities, as well as awareness-raising campaigns at local and national level, play a crucial role in creating a collective awareness of the benefits of this practice.

It is essential that new generations understand the importance of transhumance not only as a cultural heritage, but also as a key tool for environmental sustainability and rural development.

Future of transhumance

The future of transhumance offers promising prospects, especially in the field of ecotourism. Technological innovations and market opportunities for sustainable products, such as our wool, can revitalise the practice.

It is essential to continue to support pastoralists and promote transhumance as a sustainable and valuable way of life for our rural communities. 

Conclusion

In summary, transhumance is not only a tradition that preserves culture and the environment, but also offers a model of sustainable development.

From our company, as a supplier of yarns and wool wholesale, we recognise and deeply value the role of this practice in the production of high quality materials. We invite everyone to support and promote transhumance, thus ensuring its continuity for future generations.