Structural diagnosis of the mineral loading dock of the Tharsis company in the Port of Huelva

Collaboration in the Diagnostic Study and Rehabilitation Project of the Tharsis Mineral Loading Dock in the Port of Huelva led by Narciso Jesús Vázquez Carretero

The collaboration with the research team of the University of Seville led by Narciso Jesús Vázquez Carretero from 2016 to 2019 focused on the structural diagnosis of the Tharsis Dock (1871/1923), a Site of Cultural Interest (BIC) registered in 1997 in the General Catalogue of the Historical Heritage of Andalusia, with a specific character and category of Monument. The structural diagnosis carried out included a complete geometric, material and constructive characterization of the BIC, as well as the recognition of the metal structure, carried out by testing samples taken in situ, the pathological examination of all the elements that make it up and the analysis of its mechanical behavior through the global calculation of the structure considering different scenarios. Furthermore, as part of the investigation, the guidelines that the future intervention necessary to guarantee the integrity and allow the recovery of this exceptional monument, in which heritage and structure merge into a single inseparable reality, were proposed.

Subsequently, between 2020 and 2021, technical assistance was also provided as part of the N. J. Vázquez Carretero team for the Drafting of the Execution Project for the Rehabilitation of the Asset of Cultural Interest, developing a proposal with the utmost interest in terms of architectural value, adaptation to its physical environment and budgetary adequacy, resulting in being suitable according to the generally accepted criteria in matters of conservation of historical artistic heritage.

The Port Authority of Huelva began the rehabilitation works on February 24, 2022, with an investment of 5.3 million euros. This work also transcends the local scope, as it completes a recognized historical route, such as the railway lines that connected the mines of Tharsis and La Zarza on the one hand, and Rio Tinto on the other, with their respective piers located on both banks of the Odiel estuary. Due to this, it is part of a cataloged complex, representing a comprehensive action to conserve the natural and heritage landscape, with a great impact on the regeneration of the region.