Hispania Nostra marks its 50th anniversary with its 45th Forum of Cultural Associations and Heritage Managers in Valencia
Hispania Nostra, Europa Nostra’s country representation in Spain, held its 45th Forum, entitled “50 Years Committed to the Future of Cultural Heritage”, in Valencia from 1 to 3 October 2026. Marking the 50th anniversary of Hispania Nostra, the Forum provided a meeting place for heritage professionals, associations and organisations to reflect on the evolution of heritage protection, the contribution of cultural associations and the future of cultural and natural heritage in Spain. Europa Nostra’s Advocacy and Partnerships Manager Vanessa Fraga Prol contributed to the Forum.
Photo: Courtesy of Hispania Nostra
Organised annually, the Forum brings together professionals, members, associations and other individuals and organisations committed to the defence and protection of cultural and natural heritage. It offers a space to discuss a selected theme, share experiences and exchange views on current challenges and future priorities.
This anniversary edition provided an opportunity to revisit the concepts of heritage and cultural association-building, reflect on how conservation, protection, advocacy and public awareness have evolved in recent years, and examine the contribution of civil society organisations to these changes.
Exploring the many dimensions of heritage
The programme featured discussions covering different areas of heritage, including movable heritage and museums, film and music heritage, architectural and industrial heritage, archaeology, intangible heritage and natural heritage. Sessions also explored citizens’ participation and the role of communities and cultural associations in protecting and promoting heritage.
Photo: Courtesy of Hispania Nostra
The exchanges highlighted the importance of sharing professional expertise, strengthening cooperation and engaging citizens to ensure that heritage remains accessible, valued and relevant to society.
As in previous editions, the Forum included visits showcasing the rich cultural and natural heritage of the Valencian Community. Participants had the opportunity to discover sites and initiatives, such as the Churches of Santos Juanes and San Nicolás, the Hortensia Herrero Art Centre, and the Albufera Natural Park, including its traditional rural dwellings (barracas) and landscapes.
Photo: Courtesy of Hispania Nostra
A highlight of the programme was the presentation of a European Heritage Award / Europa Nostra Award 2026 for the restoration of the Dome of the Church of Escuelas Pías in Valencia.
Photo: Courtesy of Hispania Nostra
The remarkable restoration stabilised the critically damaged 18th-century structure, renewed its tile covering, and reopened the lantern — combining research, craftsmanship and monitoring. Built as part of the Piarist school complex (“Real Colegio de las Escuelas Pías”), it is one of the largest masonry domes in Spain, spanning 24.5 metres and covering around 1,000 m².
A meeting place for heritage associations and civil society
The Forum took place at the Centre del Carme Cultura Contemporània (CCCC), home to the Consortium of Museums of the Valencian Community. The organisation of the Forum was supported by the Regional Secretariat for Culture and the Directorate-General for Cultural Heritage of the Regional Ministry of Education, Culture and Universities of the Valencian Government, as well as the Valencia City Council’s Department of Culture and Heritage.
Photo: Courtesy of Hispania Nostra
Europa Nostra congratulates Hispania Nostra on its 50th anniversary and its longstanding commitment to protecting cultural and natural heritage, promoting citizen participation and mobilising civil society to help shape the future of heritage in Spain and across Europe.
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