Transhumance: An Ancestral Tradition That Shapes the Landscape and Culture

Transhumance is an ancient pastoral practice that involves the seasonal movement of livestock between different geographical areas in search of fresh pastures and suitable climates. This movement, which typically occurs in spring and autumn, allows herds to take advantage of mountain pastures in summer and plains in winter, thus avoiding soil depletion in any single area. Although it is an ancient custom, transhumance continues to be a relevant activity in many regions of the world, especially in Europe, Latin America, and parts of Asia and Africa.

Transhumance has its roots in the earliest pastoral communities, who, depending on livestock for their subsistence, were forced to find fresh pastures to feed their animals year-round. This migratory pastoral system has been documented in several ancient civilizations, including the Roman Empire, where transhumance was highly organized and regulated by law.

Over time, the practice became a pillar of the rural economy in many mountainous areas and developed specific routes and paths, known as cañadas in Spain, tratturi in Italy, and drove roads in the United Kingdom. These routes have shaped the landscape, creating a mosaic of ecosystems and biodiversity.

Despite the social and economic changes that have affected traditional pastoralism, transhumance remains prevalent in many regions. In Spain, for example, the Transhumance Festival is celebrated every year in Madrid, where shepherds and their flocks roam the streets of the capital, claiming their right to roam the ancient cattle trails. In the Swiss Alps and the Andes of South America, transhumance is also a living practice, not only providing sustainable resources for livestock farming but also becoming a cultural symbol.

Elsewhere, such as North Africa and the Middle East, nomadic communities also practice a form of transhumance adapted to their arid climates, moving their herds of camels, goats, and sheep in search of water and food. Although the distances may be greater and the climates more extreme, the goal remains the same: the survival of livestock and the community.

Ecological Benefits of Transhumance

In addition to its economic importance, transhumance has a positive impact on the environment. By rotating pastures, soil erosion and desertification are prevented, allowing rested areas to regenerate and maintain their biodiversity. Herds help keep open areas that would otherwise be invaded by scrub, promoting ideal habitats for many plant and animal species.

This seasonal movement of livestock also helps reduce dependence on fertilizers and other artificial inputs, as the animals naturally fertilize the soil with their droppings and help distribute seeds, enriching the ecosystem.

Challenges of Transhumance in the Modern World

Despite its benefits, transhumance faces many challenges today. Urbanization, intensive agriculture, and infrastructure development have fragmented traditional routes, making safe livestock transit difficult. In some areas, pastoralists face legal restrictions or conflicts over land use. Furthermore, younger generations are showing less interest in this way of life, threatening its continued existence.

However, there are efforts to revitalize transhumance and adapt it to modern times. Environmental organizations and local governments have begun to promote transhumance as a tool for ecological and cultural conservation, highlighting its importance for rural sustainability and cultural tourism.

A Living Heritage

Beyond its economic and ecological benefits, transhumance is also a cultural legacy. Transhumance routes are steeped in history, and shepherds often transmit traditional knowledge passed down from generation to generation through songs, stories, and rituals. In some countries, this practice has been recognized as Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO, with the aim of preserving it as a living tradition.

Transhumance remains an activity that connects humans with the natural cycle of the earth and reminds us of the importance of respecting and coexisting with the environment. As a testament to a way of life that has endured throughout the centuries, transhumance is much more than a pastoral system: it is a symbol of resilience, adaptation, and ecological wisdom that remains relevant in today's world.