PILOT PROJECT IN THE ANDALUSÍ NEIGHBOURHOOD AND THE CIVIL WAR SHELTER TUNNELS (ALMERÍA)

The Barrio Andalusí archaeological site and the Civil War shelters are showing signs of progressive erosion and deterioration of the historic stonework, which is jeopardising their structural stability and their conservation in the medium and long term.

In light of this situation, and following a technical report from the site management highlighting the need for sustainable and innovative solutions for heritage conservation, the TESELA team – Materials, Innovation and Heritage – has carried out a pilot project involving the application of biotechnology to stone.

Stabilising bacteria for the conservation of historic stone

As a result of this project, technical and objective data has been obtained that enables an assessment of the viability of an innovative technology based on stone-stabilising bacteria, which are capable of strengthening mineral structures and reducing their natural degradation, whilst respecting the original materials and the heritage context.

The project involved taking representative samples of the stone from the archaeological site and the rock-cut shelters, conducting technical and scientific analyses of the feasibility of the biological treatment, carrying out controlled applications in test areas, and monitoring and documenting the results, with the aim of assessing the treatment’s effectiveness in preparation for a future, more extensive conservation project.

At TESELA, we are reinforcing our commitment to innovation in heritage conservation by combining biotechnology, scientific knowledge and the conservation of historical heritage, and by contributing to the protection and transmission of cultural heritage for future generations.