Geological and Mining Institute of Spain facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Geological and Mining Institute of Spain |
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| Native name Spanish: Instituto Geológico y Minero de España |
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| Location | Madrid, Spain |
| Official name: Instituto Geológico y Minero de España | |
| Type | Non-movable |
| Criteria | Monument |
| Designated | 1998 |
| Reference no. | RI-51-0010188 |
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The Geological and Mining Institute of Spain (in Spanish, Instituto Geológico y Minero de España) is a special place in Madrid, Spain. It's like a science center where experts study the Earth. This institute works with the Ministry of Science to learn more about our planet.
Contents
Exploring Earth's Past: The Institute's History
The idea for this institute started a long time ago, in the 1800s. Back then, a group was formed to create a geological map of Spain. This map would show all the different rocks and landforms.
The Institute's Building
The main building of the institute is on Ríos Rosas street in the Chamberí area of Madrid. It was designed by an architect named Francisco Javier de Luque. The building officially opened in 1926.
This opening was a big event because Spain was hosting the International Geological Congress that year. Right next door to the institute is the School of Mining Engineering of Madrid, which was built even earlier, in 1893.
Mapping Important Geological Sites
The institute also works with the Spanish Geological Society. Together, they have made a list of important geosites in Spain. These are places with special geological features that are important worldwide.
This project started in 1999. It is part of a bigger plan called the Global Geosites project. This global project was started by the International Union of Geological Sciences and later supported by UNESCO.
Discovering the Earth: The Museum
Inside the institute building, there is a fascinating geological museum. It is located in a very large hall with a beautiful stained glass roof. This hall was first used for the International Geological Congress in 1926.
The museum itself opened to the public the following year. Today, it is known as the Museo Geominero. It's a great place to see rocks, minerals, and fossils.
A Special Building: Heritage Listing
The building of the Geological and Mining Institute is very important. In 1998, it was officially declared a Bien de Interés Cultural. This means it is a special heritage site in Spain, protected for its historical and artistic value.
See also
In Spanish: Instituto Geológico y Minero de España para niños
