Natural Heritage

The natural singularity of Aznalcázar lies in its position as a transitional territory between Sierra Morena and Doñana. This situation favours the presence of an extraordinary diversity of ecosystems, where Mediterranean forests, dehesas, pine forests, riverbanks and marshes function in an interconnected way. This ecological continuity is essential for the movement of numerous species and for the maintenance of one of the most important natural spaces in Europe.

The Guadiamar River constitutes the main environmental axis of the municipality. Since historical times it has shaped the landscape and favoured the appearance of fertile plains, riverside forests and wetlands of great ecological value. After the Aznalcóllar mining accident in 1998, this territory was the object of one of the largest environmental restoration projects developed in Europe, giving rise to the current Green Corridor of the Guadiamar, considered today an international reference in the recovery of river ecosystems.

The variety of habitats turns this environment into an exceptional refuge for fauna. Together with mammals such as the Egyptian mongoose, the otter or the fox, the municipality stands out especially for its ornithological richness. Thousands of birds use these spaces to feed, reproduce or rest during their migrations between Europe and Africa, forming part of one of the most important migratory routes on the continent.

The vegetation also reflects this environmental diversity. Holm oaks, cork oaks, stone pines, wild olive trees, mastic trees, rockroses and dwarf palms make up a landscape characteristic of the Mediterranean forest, while willows, ashes and poplars accompany the course of the Guadiamar, creating very different environments in barely a few kilometres of distance.

This balance between nature and human activity has made it possible to preserve numerous traditional uses, such as extensive livestock farming, forest use or the use of livestock routes, integrating the cultural landscape within a space of enormous ecological value.

All of this turns Aznalcázar into a fundamental piece for understanding the functioning of the great natural system of Doñana. More than a municipality located next to the park, it constitutes one of the territories that make possible its ecological balance and the conservation of its extraordinary biodiversity.

·       Junta de Andalucía. Espacio Natural de Doñana.

·       Junta de Andalucía. Corredor Verde del Guadiamar.

·       Estación Biológica de Doñana (CSIC). Ecología del corredor Guadiamar-Doñana.

·       Ministerio para la Transición Ecológica y el Reto Demográfico. Restauración ambiental del Guadiamar.

·       UNESCO. Doñana National Park (World Heritage Site).