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l’Alfàs del Pi Marks 190th Anniversary with Launch of 15th Cultural Week Celebrations

 

The town of l’Alfàs del Pi has officially begun celebrations marking the 190th anniversary of its establishment as an independent municipality, following its separation from the Barony of Polop in 1836.

 

The commemorations coincide with the launch of the 15th edition of the “l’Alfàs amb Història” Cultural Week, a programme dedicated this year to the historical development of education in the municipality.

 

Focus on Education and Local Heritage

The opening event took place at the Espai Cultural Escoles Velles, featuring the presentation of the documentary and publication “Records escolars: l’ensenyament elemental a l’Alfàs del Pi (1836–1970)”, which explores nearly a century and a half of primary education in the town.

 

The research draws on archival records and personal testimonies from former students and teachers, documenting the evolution of schooling, infrastructure development, and social issues such as access inequality and funding challenges.

 

Week-Long Cultural Programme

The anniversary programme includes exhibitions, lectures, workshops and community events across several days:

 

A historical exhibition recreating a mid-20th century classroom using archival photographs and museum collections

 

Educational talks examining the evolution of teaching and archives in the municipality

A free family workshop open to residents and visitors

 

A traditional spring concert by the La Lira Musical Society, featuring guest trumpet soloist Rubén Simeó, with proceeds supporting cancer research

 

A guided walking tour of the town centre focusing on the development of local education and public institutions

 

Community Recognition and Awards

During the celebrations, the annual l’Alfàs Prize will also be awarded, recognising contributions to the cultural and civic life of the municipality.

 

This year’s honours include tributes to former cultural councillors since Spain’s democratic transition, long-serving cultural leadership figures, the IES L’Arabí school on its 25th anniversary, and the late teacher Concha Devesa Rodríguez, remembered for her decades of educational service.

 

Cultural Identity and Long-Term Legacy

The Cultural Week, first established in 2012, has become a key fixture in the town’s calendar, promoting local heritage, academic research and community participation.

 

Officials say this year’s edition forms part of the wider “l’Alfàs 2026 Cultural Year”, which celebrates multiple anniversaries across the municipality’s cultural institutions.

 

The council has invited residents and visitors to take part in the programme, highlighting education as a central pillar in the town’s historical and social development.