In 2017, while I had one of those news broadcasts playing in the background, the kind that shine for their lack of interesting stories, I was genuinely surprised to learn that Spain had an oil field, and that it was shutting down after 53 years of operation. The mere sight of the Castilian plains (Sargentes de la Lora), dotted with pumpjacks like a scene straight out of West Texas, instantly set my imagination alight. From that moment on, I knew I wanted to visit such a unique place in person.
My interest grew even more when I did a bit of research and discovered how fascinating its origins were. In truth, the field’s production was quite modest, peaking at around 1,000 barrels per day at its height. It’s said that the real motivation was to produce oil as a strategic resource during times of global tension and oil crisis, making the project much more than an industrial endeavor. It became a true historical milestone.
Few times have I felt so excited upon arriving at one of my photographic destinations. Since there’s no paved road leading to the site, I had to park the car about a kilometer away. As soon as I saw those structures in the distance, I felt an urge to run through the fields toward them. But, trying to preserve a bit of dignity, and to avoid looking like Sister Maria from The Sound of Music, I decided to pace myself. It was a magical moment, one of those that etches itself into your memory.
I truly hope that such an authentic and unique place is preserved and appreciated in all its significance. It would be a shame if the incompetence of the authorities ends up erasing such a touching part of our history. For once, I hope they surprise me, in a good way.
