Archive event to open new research paths
Ascó will host the XVII Carmel Biarnés Local and Territorial Studies Day this Saturday 10 October, spotlighting the newly catalogued personal archive of the late local historian Carmel Biarnés (1928–1992). The event, titled 'The Personal Archive of Carmel Biarnés: An Open Door to Research', aims to promote access to the collection, held at the Ribera d’Ebre Comarcal Archive, for future study of the Ebro region’s history and culture. The day is organised by the cultural association Lo Llaüt d’Ascó, the Centre d’Estudis de la Ribera d’Ebre, the Arxiu Comarcal de la Ribera d’Ebre, and Ascó Town Council. It follows the completion of a full inventory of Biarnés’ papers, correspondence, notes and research documents, making them more accessible to scholars and the public.
Legacy of a local historian
Carmel Biarnés, born in Ascó, dedicated his life to researching and promoting the region’s traditions, history and way of life. His published works include 'Moros i moriscos a la Ribera d’Ebre', 'Guia d’Ascó' and 'La navegació fluvial per l’Ebre'. Josep María Raduà, Ascó’s culture councillor, said the archive allows insight not only into Biarnés’ work but also into how he studied the territory. 'That this archive is now catalogued and more accessible is excellent news for research, and for Ascó', he said.
This event is an invitation to open these documents, ask new questions, and keep Biarnés’ legacy alive.
Raduà added the day aims to reaffirm the value of archives as spaces that preserve the past while enabling new knowledge.
Full programme of talks and music
The event begins at 17:00 at the Centre Cultural Magatzem de Rita. After an institutional welcome, Gerard Mercadé, director of the Ribera d’Ebre Comarcal Archive, will give a talk titled 'Carmel Biarnés: Life, Work and Territory Through His Personal Documents'. At 18:30, philologist and former president of the Centre d’Estudis de la Ribera d’Ebre, Josep-Sebastià Cid i Català, will present 'The Literary World of Carmel Biarnés: Theatre in His Work', exploring Biarnés’ contributions to literature and drama. The day concludes with a concert by the Scherzo Women’s Chamber Choir from Vila-seca. Founded in 1989, the choir will perform 'Balades amargues' on poems by Josep Palau i Fabre and 'Suite La mar' on poems by Joan Maragall, with Daniel Ruiz on piano.
Reported by Redacció Ebredigital.cat, Posted by Lo Llaüt, Biblioteca Marcel·lí Domingo, imaginaradio.cat.
