The first products from the Bernardos slate quarries were roofing slates. At Naturpiedra, we manufacture and supply roofing slates in various formats, shapes, and thicknesses.
History and Significance
The quarries were opened by King Philip II in 1559 to cover the roofs of the kingdom’s monuments. Influenced by his travels during his youth in Flanders, the sovereign did not hesitate to incorporate new elements into architecture, previously unknown in Spain. The Monastery of El Escorial, one of the first and most emblematic monuments, became the showcase of a new architectural style (1563). Artisans from Flanders (stonemasons, slaters, carpenters), all specialists in slate, were invited.
Recognitions
THE PHYLLITE NATURPIEDRA, RECOGNIZED AS WORLD HERITAGE STONE
One of the most important rocks in Spanish architectural history has been recognized as a World Heritage Stone by the International Union of Geological Sciences (IUGS), thus joining the very restricted circle of stones already listed as world heritage (22 ornamental rocks in 13 countries). This designation recognizes unique rocks that are essential and necessary for historical monuments and heritage, with the aim of maintaining proper resource management, ensuring their availability for future generations. The criteria for receiving this designation are:
- Rock used for a long time.
- In exceptional works.
- Over a wide geographical area.
- Recognized as a local or national symbol.
- Durability and Ecology.
THE PHYLLITE NATURPIEDRA, A NATURALLY ECOLOGICAL AND DURABLE ROOFING MATERIAL
Naturpiedra guarantees its low environmental impact with its Environmental Product Declaration, which demonstrates the low carbon footprint of Phyllite throughout its life cycle (cradle to cradle), compared to other construction materials. This is an important advantage within the framework of environmental regulations.
Why choose Naturpiedra roofing slate
In addition to the criteria mentioned previously, our clients choose our Phyllite Naturpiedra for:
- Exclusivity: Very few quarries in the world produce such a traditional and exclusive product.
- Physico-mechanical characteristics (A1/T1/S1): These confer hardness and resistance to all climates, even the most extreme.
- Beauty and quality: Its characteristic veining and lead-gray color with color spots and pyrite that do not change over time and do not turn into rust.
- Traditional craftsmanship: The Naturpiedra teams handcraft the pieces.
- Variety of available formats: Traditional ogives, uncut, rectangular formats, mixed, which we have been supplying for 40 years for Spanish or foreign heritage.
- Resource optimization in the quarry: The stone is also transformed into paving or cladding tiles, garden decoration products, or masonry.
Conclusion
Naturpiedra roofing slate from the Bernardos quarries is an exclusive, durable, and aesthetically attractive material, with a rich history and international recognition. Its use for roofing not only guarantees the protection and longevity of structures but also brings significant historical and cultural value.