175 Years of the IGME-CSIC and 125 Years of the RSF

175 YEARS OF THE GEOLOGICAL AND MINING INSTITUTE OF SPAIN (IGME-CSIC):
The National Geological and Mining Institute of Spain of the CSIC (IGME-CSIC) has its origins in the Commission for the Geological Map of Madrid and the General Commission of the Kingdom, created by Royal Decree of July 12, 1849, during the reign of Isabel II.

Over its 175-year history, the current IGME-CSIC has gone through various names and affiliations, becoming a Public Research Organization in 1986, just after the arrival of democracy.

In March 2021, the IGME joined the State Agency, the Spanish National Research Council (CSIC), as a National Center, forming part of the largest research organization in the country.

This public institution, dedicated to research and study in the field of Earth sciences and technologies, has a public service mission and advises public administrations on geological knowledge of the territory, surface and groundwater, geological hazards, and mineral resources in Spain. Its function is also to prepare and publish national geological maps and the resulting thematic maps.

The IGME-CSIC National Center has a broad presence in the Autonomous Communities with 11 Territorial Units. It has four scientific departments: Geological Hazards, Water and Global Change, Resources for the Ecological Transition, and Subsoil Geology. It also has laboratories in Tres Cantos (Madrid), a Lithotheque in Peñarroya-Pueblonuevo (Córdoba), as well as a Library, Magnateque, and Documentation Center in Madrid, and the Fardes River Valley Paleontological Station in the Granada Geopark. The Geominero Museum is the flagship of the IGME headquarters in Ríos Rosas, which will celebrate its centenary in 2026.

The National Geological and Mining Institute of Spain (CSIC) commemorates the 175th anniversary of its creation under the motto "Earth Sciences at the Service of Society."

The stamp issued by Correos to commemorate this anniversary shows one of the stained-glass windows of the emblematic IGME headquarters on Ríos Rosas Street in Madrid. The building, declared a Site of Cultural Interest in 1998, was partially inaugurated on May 24, 1926, with the solemn opening ceremony of the XIV International Geological Congress, under the presidency of King Alfonso XIII.

125 YEARS OF THE ROYAL PHOTOGRAPHIC SOCIETY (RSF):
The Royal Photographic Society (RSF) is a non-profit association dedicated to the dissemination and promotion of photography as an artistic expression. It is funded through membership fees, grants, and occasional sponsorships.

Founded in 1899, it has witnessed important historical events in Spain, having been an art and part of the history of photography in Spain.

For 125 years, the RSF has demonstrated its ability to adapt, consolidating itself as a modern, diverse entity open to all photographic trends.

Open to professionals, amateurs, and anyone interested, it encourages collaboration for the recognition and dissemination of photography.

The RSF organizes activities that promote learning and development through the exchange of knowledge and comparison of work. The experience and artistic quality of its members are a valuable contribution to this process. It has won six National Photography Awards among its historical members.

Proud of its legacy, the Royal Photographic Society remains committed to the evolution and promotion of photography in all its forms.