The Val d'Aran Museum has initiated a training course for heritage guides aimed at enhancing understanding of the region's history, language, traditions, and cultural heritage. The course, which runs from 19 to 23 October 2026, comprises a total of 40 hours of training, including 30 hours of in-person sessions and 10 hours of practicum.
Conducted in both Aranese and Catalan, the training is led by professionals from the Conselh Generau d'Aran, covering areas such as Culture, Museums, Language, and Tourism, as well as specialists in art history and archaeology. The programme features field visits, cultural tours, and interpretive sessions across various villages in the Val d'Aran.
Course details
The first day, held in Vielha, focuses on Aranese identity and includes visits to the Val d'Aran Museum, the Habrica dera Lan, and the church of Sant Miquèu, alongside a session addressing the current status of the Aranese language. The second day centres on the historical evolution through the religious and archaeological heritage of Betren, Escunhau, Arties, and Garòs, featuring visits to the churches of Sant Estèue, Sant Pèir, Santa Maria d'Arties, and Sant Julian, as well as the ancient necropolis of Garòs.
On the third day, participants will explore traditional mountain economic activities in the Lairissa region, starting in Vilamòs and including the Bassa d'Arres, Mina Victòria, its interpretation centre, and the Sacòsta gallery, as well as the Ecomuseum Çò de Joanchiquet and the church of Santa Maria de Vilamòs. In case of bad weather, the visit to the mine will be replaced by a visit to the Snow Museum.
In Pujòlo, participants will discover the heritage of Sant Andrèu de Salardú, the Mòla de Salardú, Santa Maria de Cap d'Aran in Tredòs, and Santa Eulària d'Unha. The course will conclude in Quate Lòcs with visits to the church of Màir de Diu dera Purificació de Bossòst, the Haro square in Les, the castle, and the Festival of Fire Museum, all aimed at deepening knowledge of the Val d'Aran's heritage and traditions.
The training includes a ten-hour practicum to prepare for the final assessment, which will consist of a maximum 30-minute oral presentation on one of the heritage elements visited, simulating a guided tour for tourists. Evaluation will consider the quality and accuracy of content, language use, oral resources, and the ability to connect with the audience.
Participants who achieve a minimum attendance of 80% will receive a certificate of attendance for 30 hours. Additionally, those who pass the practicum will obtain a certificate of completion for 40 hours. Through this initiative, the Conselh Generau d'Aran and the Val d'Aran Museum aim to strengthen the training of individuals interested in interpreting, promoting, and disseminating the rich historical, cultural, and natural heritage of the Aranese territory.
