Javier Cacho presents a lecture on Antarctica at Museo L’Iber
On June 23, Museo L’Iber will host the lecture Antarctica: From Barbarism to Hope, given by scientist, writer and science communicator Javier Cacho, one of the most respected voices in Spain on polar exploration and science communication.
To mark the bicentenary of the discovery of Antarctica, this lecture offers a fascinating journey through the history of the white continent, from the earliest expeditions to the present day.
The history of Antarctic exploration
The lecture will address the earliest voyages to the Antarctic continent, marked by the intensive exploitation of natural resources and the indiscriminate hunting of seals and whales, activities that pushed numerous species to the brink of extinction.
It will also look back on what is known as the “Heroic Age of Antarctic Exploration,” led by legendary explorers such as Scott, Amundsen and Shackleton, whose expeditions remain benchmarks of endurance, discovery and perseverance.
Antarctica as an example of international cooperation
One of the central themes of the lecture will be the transformation of Antarctica over the last fifty years.
Today, the white continent represents a territory devoted to peace, science and international cooperation, free of borders or active territorial disputes. A unique model of global coexistence that invites us to reflect on how it might be applied to other regions of the planet.
About Javier Cacho
Javier Cacho is a scientist, writer and science communicator specializing in polar exploration. He took part in the First Spanish Scientific Expedition to Antarctica and has taken part in numerous Antarctic campaigns, serving as head of the Spanish Antarctic base on three occasions.
He is the author of several books on polar exploration and received the Spanish Geographical Society’s 2021/2022 Science Communication Award.
In recognition of his scientific career, an Antarctic island bears his name: Cacho Island, making him the only Spaniard to hold this distinction.
Lecture information
- Date: June 23
- Time: 7:30 p.m.
- Location: Museo L’Iber
- Speaker: Javier Cacho
- Topic: Antarctic exploration, history and international scientific cooperation
