The National Geographic Information Centre (CNIG) has inaugurated its new Map House in Palencia, Spain. Located in the Multi-Use Building of the General State Administration (Avda. Simón Nieto, 10), the space was officially opened by the Government Sub-delegate in Palencia, Eduardo Santiago Calleja, and the CNIG Director, Emilio López Romero.
A Vital Resource for Palencia and Beyond
During the inauguration, López Romero emphasized the dedication of the technicians at the National Geographic Institute (IGN) in maintaining up-to-date Spanish cartography and continually strengthening the availability of territorial information. Santiago, in turn, highlighted the crucial role of Map Houses as essential spaces for administrations, professionals, and citizens, offering accurate information and resources to better understand the territory.
The new facility will allow any citizen direct access to cartographic materials and specialized publications, as well as various educational resources. The Sub-delegate affirmed that this space “is not only a dissemination point, but a link between scientific knowledge, technology, and public service,” and underscored its contribution to improving the responsiveness of public services.
Supporting Essential Public Services
Beyond its educational function, the IGN provides indispensable tools for numerous public services. Its cartography is routinely used by State Security Forces and Corps, emergency services, firefighters, Civil Protection, and administrations requiring reliable territorial information for decision-making in situations such as floods or fires, where precise terrain updates are critical. You can learn more about the importance of geographic information systems at Esri Canada.
The inauguration was also attended by various provincial authorities, including the Defence Sub-delegate in Palencia, Colonel Juan Carlos Moreno; the Chief of Police, Montserrat Marín; Lieutenant Colonel Luis Manuel Lombardero, head of the Civil Guard; representatives from the Junta de Castilla y León, the Palencia City Council, the Provincial Council, the Local Police, Fire Department, and Civil Protection.
The CNIG’s new Map House in Palencia represents a significant investment in providing accessible and vital geographic information to the community and supporting the critical work of public services. It’s a testament to the ongoing commitment to leveraging technology for the benefit of all citizens.
