UNITED STATES

SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549

FORM 6-K

Report of Foreign Private Issuer

Pursuant to Rule 13a-16 or 15d-16
under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934

For the month of December 2006

Rio Narcea Gold Mines Ltd.

(Translation of registrant's name into English)

Avda.del Laniello 13-Bajo, 33860 Salas, Asturias, Spain
(Address of principal executive offices)

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant files or will file annual reports under cover Form 20-F or Form 40-F.

Form 20-F X Form 40-F

Indicate by check mark if the registrant is submitting the Form 6-K in paper as permitted by Regulation S-T Rule 101(b)(1):

Indicate by check mark if the registrant is submitting the Form 6-K in paper as permitted by Regulation S-T Rule 101(b)(7):

Indicate by check mark whether by furnishing the information contained in this Form, the registrant is also thereby furnishing the information to the Commission pursuant to Rule 12g3-2(b) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934.

Yes _____ No __X__

If “Yes” is marked, indicate below the file number assigned to the registrant in connection with Rule 12g3-2(b): 82- ________

TABLE OF CONTENTS

The following documents are filed as part of this Form 6-K:

Exhibit

Description

99.1

news release

SIGNATURES

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized.

Date:

December 13, 2006

Rio Narcea Gold Mines, Ltd.

By: /s/ John Craig

Name John Craig

Title Corporate Secretary

EXHIBIT INDEX

Exhibit

Description

99.1

news release

RIO NARCEA GOLD MINES LTD 6-K