more than 20 years of history

Navelgas, panning capital since 1999

The Navelgas Gold Panning Championship is one of the most emblematic competitions in the field of sport gold panning in the world. Its history begins in 1999, when it was organized for the first time in the small village of Navelgas, located in the council of Tineo, in the heart of Asturias. Since then, the event has become a tradition that attracts numerous participants and viewers from all over the world, fascinated by the rich mining heritage and natural beauty of the area.

Declared to be a Festival of Regional Tourist Interest in 2014, the event is held every year during the last weekend of July, as part of the official calendar of the World Gold Panning Association.

The championship was created by the Association of “Barciaecus” Panners, with the aim of preserving the traditional technique of gold panning. Today, it is not only an international sport event, but also a great festival that celebrates the history and culture of gold mining in Asturias. In addition, the event strengthens the cultural identity of the region and contributes to local economy, attracting thousands of visitors and generating a positive impact on tourism and local commerce.

the legacy of gold mining

Rural culture and tradition

The Navelgas Gold Panning Championship is now a living testimony of the rich mining history of Asturias and a celebration of tradition and community. From its modest beginnings in 1999 to its consolidation as an international event, it has come a long way, standing out today as an unmissable event for gold panning enthusiasts and an expression of the vibrant local culture.