Other coal mining-related buildings and amenities

Víctor Considérant used to say that architecture is the writer of history – it would only be necessary to lay eyes on the mining sites to return to bygone eras associated with this industry. There are countless industrial buildings featuring a blend of very original designs and singular technical and constructive techniques. They make up the industrial heritage that reveals our collective memory. Inspired by social policies, the mining industry also produced a number of buildings outside of the main work areas. This is the case with buildings at times inspired by paternalistic guidelines forged by hygienists and philanthropists that were then adopted by large companies such as Duro Felguera and the Sociedad Hullera with the purpose of reinforcing workers’ loyalty and boosting their performance.

Providing homes for workers was a stable company policy, and their education was also attended to by means of the building of primary schools. Certain charitable and educational institutions are worth noting, such as the Orfanato de Mineros Asturianos (Asturian Miners’ Orphanage), established by Manuel Llaneza through the Sindicato Minero de Asturias (Miners’ Trade Union of Asturias). There were also trade schools for adults, training engineers and foremen in the latest scientific and technical advances. Additionally, there were buildings for spare-time activities, as well as others for food retail and medical assistance, including large hospitals such as Sanatorio Adaro (Adaro Sanitarium). Also worth noting are the sophisticated developments which were built as residences for the engineers and the management.