Lleida's cultural and gastronomic offerings were prominently featured at the presentation of the cultural tourism year, held at the Palau de les Arts in Valencia. The event, organised by the Catalan Tourism Agency in collaboration with the Tourism Boards of the Lleida and Girona provinces, highlighted the region's rich cultural heritage.
Gregori Albareda, a sommelier from Lleida who ranked 23rd in the 2025 Top 100 Sommeliers in Spain list by Sommelier Edit, participated in the event. Juli Alegre, director of the Patronat de Turisme of the Lleida Provincial Council, emphasised that “our destination offers a journey through traditional festivals and fairs, museums, pilgrimage routes, and various architectural styles, alongside UNESCO-recognised material and immaterial heritage, including rock art, Romanesque architecture, the Fallas festival, raiers, dry stone construction techniques, and bell ringing.”
Alegre further stated that “the essence of our culture is also reflected in our gastronomy,” noting that the wines from the DO Costers del Segre and the oils from the Lleida lands served during the dinner “possess unique characteristics that mirror the diversity of our landscapes and the care with which our fields are cultivated.” He asserted that “in Lleida, care is fundamental: caring for the land, the products, and the people.”
He also explained that “we are a destination committed to a sustainable and regenerative tourism model, designed for a conscious visitor.”
Approximately one hundred representatives from the tourism sector, journalists, content creators, and authorities attended the event, enjoying a cocktail prepared by chef Àlex Carrera and sommelier Gregori Albareda. The event was also attended by Cristina Lagé, the general director of Tourism, Arantxa Calvera, the director of the Catalan Tourism Agency, and Norbert Bes, director of the Patronat de Turisme of the Girona Provincial Council.
