Noria of Blood Murcia: Cultural Protection of Dismantled Wheels
Murcia’s Torreagüera Water Wheel Dismantled, Cultural Heritage Status Granted
MURCIA, Spain (May 5, 2025) – In a move echoing the preservation efforts of Murcia’s Old Prison, the Noria de Sangre (Blood Water Wheel) of Torreagüera has been granted protection by the General Directorate of Cultural Heritage after it’s dismantling by the property owner. The agency has specifically moved to safeguard the two metallic wheels discovered at the original site of the historic water wheel.
History of the Torreagüera Water Wheel
Earlier this year, the bicihuerta collective advocated for the restoration of this century-old water wheel, located near the Silvestres lane in the Landrona irrigation canal. However, between Jan. 1 and Jan. 4, the owners relocated the metal components and altered the land, effectively concealing the well opening and other elements associated with the hydraulic structure.
Prior to the dismantling, technicians from the Community’s Historical Heritage Service inspected the site. According to regional sources, they noted the absence of key features necessary to identify the site as the purported “Noria de sangre,” including the well excavation, the platform for the animals, and the lifting mechanism. The sources did not mention any dismantling or land modification at the time.
Cultural Heritage Protection
Despite the earlier assessment, the General Directorate of Cultural Heritage has now intervened to protect the two metal wheels found during a recent site visit.
Relocation Considerations
The Historical Heritage Service of the General Directorate of Cultural Heritage stated that while some elements could not be cataloged, a plan to highlight the remaining components is under consideration.
According to cultural officials, the two metal wheels, being movable, could be relocated to a suitable space. This would ensure their preservation and facilitate their use for educational purposes, serving as a testament to the traditional water management systems of the Murcia region.
Officials added that because the water wheel lacked legal protection at the time of its dismantling, the owners will not face penalties.
Believed to have been constructed between the late 19th and early 20th centuries, the water wheel was primarily used for irrigation. These animal-powered systems were common throughout the region untill they were replaced by diesel engines in the mid-20th century. In the case of the Torreagüera water wheel, some components have disappeared, while the wellhead and original well remain buried.
Murcia’s Torreagüera Water Wheel: Unraveling the Story of a Protected Relic
What happened to the Torreagüera Water Wheel in Murcia, Spain?
The Torreagüera water wheel, known as the “Noria de sangre” (Blood Water Wheel), was dismantled by its property owner. This action prompted intervention from the General Directorate of Cultural Heritage, leading to the protection of its remaining components.
Why is the Torreagüera Water Wheel significant?
The Torreagüera water wheel is significant as it represents a part of Murcia’s cultural history. these animal-powered systems were vital to the region’s irrigation practices.
What elements of the water wheel are now protected?
The General Directorate of Cultural Heritage has specifically protected the two metallic wheels discovered at the original site.
Where was the torreagüera Water Wheel located?
The water wheel was located near the Silvestres lane in the Landrona irrigation canal in Murcia.
Who advocated for the water wheel’s restoration?
The bicihuerta collective advocated for the restoration of the historic water wheel earlier this year.
When was the water wheel dismantled?
The dismantling occurred between January 1st and January 4th.
What actions did the property owners take?
The property owners relocated the metal components and altered the land, concealing the well opening and other associated elements of the hydraulic structure.
Were there any prior inspections of the water wheel site?
Yes, before the dismantling, technicians from the Community’s Historical Heritage Service inspected the site. they noted the absence of key features necessary to identify it as the “Noria de Sangre,” but did not mention any dismantling happening.
What does the General Directorate of Cultural Heritage plan to do with the remaining components?
A plan to highlight the remaining components is under consideration by the Historical Heritage Service. They are considering relocating the two metal wheels to a suitable space.
Will the owners face penalties for dismantling the water wheel?
No, officials stated that the owners would not face penalties because the water wheel lacked legal protection at the time of its dismantling.
When was the Torreagüera Water Wheel likely constructed?
The water wheel is believed to have been constructed between the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
What was the primary purpose of the Torreagüera Water Wheel?
The water wheel was primarily used for irrigation purposes.
How did animal-powered water wheels compare to later irrigation systems?
Animal-powered systems, common throughout the region, were replaced by diesel engines in the mid-20th century.
What is the current status of the wellhead and original well?
The wellhead and original well remain buried.
Can the protected metal wheels be relocated?
yes, the two metal wheels are movable and could be relocated to a suitable space for preservation and educational use.
What can be learned from the preservation of the Torreagüera Water Wheel?
The preservation of the water wheel components serves as a testament to the customary water management systems of the murcia region.
Summary: Key Facts About the Torreagüera Water Wheel
Here’s a summary of the key events and facts related to the Torreagüera Water Wheel:
| Key Factor | Details |
|---|---|
| Event | Dismantling and subsequent protection by the General Directorate of Cultural Heritage |
| Location | Near Silvestres lane, Landrona irrigation canal, Murcia |
| Protected Components | Two metallic wheels |
| Restoration Advocacy | Bicihuerta collective |
| Purpose | Irrigation |
| Era | Late 19th – Early 20th Centuries |
| Owners Penalty | No penalties due to lack of protection when dismantled. |