The municipality of Val de San Lorenzo in León has been selected as one of the winners of the third edition of 'Proyecto Reactivadores' by Holapueblo, an initiative led by AlmaNatura and promoted by Redeia and IKEA, aimed at encouraging the re-population of rural areas throughout Spain.

These entities aim to design spaces with purpose and socio-environmental value in rural settings that help people grow and unlock new opportunities. The municipalities are selected based on their projects aimed at consolidating and revitalising spaces as hubs for new enterprises, which act as catalysts for positive transformation to turn their communities into breeding grounds for intercultural coexistence with a clear focus on sustainability. These initiatives help energise the economic and social activity of the municipalities and promote demographic growth.

Thus, these organizations have introduced the new Maragato Cultural Hub: a space for innovation, culture, and community. The idea arises from the need to create a multifunctional space where people can actively participate in the social and cultural life of the area, also promoting sustainability and local development.

The new centre will host a variety of activities: talks on Maragato culture, textile craft workshops, art and photography exhibitions, classes for adults, and study areas for those preparing for exams. It will also offer courses on sustainability, the environment, equality, and cybersecurity.

'We envisioned a place where young people can study or have fun, older adults can read or chat, entrepreneurs can think up new ideas, and local associations can work together to build a better future. At IKEA, we’re not just bringing furniture and design but creating a space that we hope will come to life—a shared home that has a positive effect on the local community', says Laura Escalante, IKEA’s Sustainability Project Leader.

The space in the old Casa de Cultura, measuring 64 m², has been redesigned by IKEA to meet the needs of residents and associations, featuring décor inspired by the local Maragatería tradition using indigo blue as a symbolic colour, sustainable furniture, low-energy LED lighting, and areas adapted for people with reduced mobility. 'We have designed an aesthetic that reflects both tradition and sustainability, with colours that evoke the culture of Maragatería. Because here, ideas are not only projected but also help build identity', highlights the IKEA spokesperson.

The new Maragato Cultural Centre will serve as more than just a space for meetings and learning; it will also foster an inspiring environment where tradition, art, and sustainability are in harmony. To achieve this, the walls will be decorated with posters that encourage reflection on environmental respect, healthy living, and the rich cultural heritage of Val de San Lorenzo and Maragatería identity. Furthermore, the programme will include contributions from prominent local figures, such as painter Virginia del Arco, singer-songwriter Mª José Cordero, and environmentalist María del Mar Cuesta, who will bring cultural and educational proposals to the space.

'I believe we are very privileged to have this space in Val de San Lorenzo, and now, even more, with the opportunity provided by Holapueblo through the Proyecto Reactivadores, which has enabled it to be refurbished—a development that excites the entire community,' states Paula Martínez, president of the La Unión Association. At just 31 years old, she leads this organisation, which includes 75% of the municipality’s population.

This project aims to be inclusive, benefiting people of all ages—from children to seniors over 65, who account for more than 50% of the local population. It is estimated that in the first year, around one hundred people will take part in the cultural, educational, and environmental activities that will be hosted there.

Luis Alfonso Cordero, mayor of Val de San Lorenzo, highlighted that 'The multifunctional design proposed by IKEA for this space is perfect for residents and associations in the town to have a dynamic, warm, and welcoming place to carry out all kinds of cultural activities. With this initiative, we are closing the gap between rural and urban living so that living in a village does not mean having less access to culture.'