The Significance of “White Macael” Marble Since Ancient Times: Characteristics of a Candidate as Global Heritage Stone Resource

Abstract

The ornamental use of marble from Macael region (Almería, southeast of Spain) began more than 5000 years ago. The first small objects are from the Neolithic period (3400–3000 B.C.) and the first known sculptures are from the Phoenicians period (fifth century B.C.) Since then, the marble’s use has been continuous, especially since the eleventh century. Some of the best known examples of Macael marble in Spain can be observed in Roman cities (e.g., Itálica), in Muslim buildings (e.g., Mosque of Córdoba or the Alhambra palace), or in Renaissance buildings such as the monastery of El Escorial, among many others. Some are declared World Heritage Sites by UNESCO. This makes the region one of the most important extraction centers in Spain, both at present and historically. The oldest and most famous variety of marble is known as White Macael (Blanco Macael). There are other marbles such as Gray Macael, Anasol Yellow Macael, and serpentinites which are traded as Green Macael. These have less importance in terms of their use in heritage but great importance in current regional trade. In this work, we provide a full characterization of the main characteristics of the White Macael marble from Macael and propose it as a candidate for “Global Heritage Stone Resource.” This work is important for duly recognizing a natural stone that has been used profusely in heritage buildings in the past and present with important international significance.