The aim of this work is to provide a history of the cultivation of black truffle in Spain from its beginning in the 1950s to the present, considering also its prospects for the future.
The present situation is the result of research and field work, pioneered in Spain by a few investigators and institutions that saw the possibilities of truffle cultivation as an activity of high economic, social and ecological interest, especially for areas with a tradition of very limited agronomic and forestry opportunities. Thus, it falls within the concept of sustained development.
This paper provides data on production, prices, collection areas, markets and commerce, publications, truffle plantations and research efforts. Finally, we give a brief summary of future prospects for the truffle sector in Spain in order to establish common lines or criteria for the activity.