This newsletter is dedicated to celebrating two remarkable occasions: the prestigious Europa Nostra Award and the World Music Day. It pays tribute to the artisans and honours their dedication to preserving Europe’s rich cultural heritage. Join us in celebrating their achievements and the enduring impact of their work!
Celebrating European Heritage Awards/Europa Nostra Awards
This year marks the 22nd anniversary of Europe’s most prestigious awards in the heritage field. This award pays also tribute to craftspeople, whose work transcends national borders.
This year, it highlights their work in the European heritage sector in Poland, Spain, Greece, and Norway.
From a renowned school of basketry in Poland to rescuing historic windows in Norway, these artisans sustain the legacy of European craftsmanship. Moreover, the awards recognize innovative conservation projects, such as the school of ancient craft of white carpentry in Spain or the revival of Greek traditional building techniques. This initiative is crucial to ensure the continuity of cultural heritage worldwide. Join us in celebrating excellence and vote for the Public Choice Award 2024 in the European Heritage Awards/Europa Nostra Awards before September 22, here:
Norway - Else “Sprossa” Rønnevig- Europa Nostra Winner of "Heritage Champion"
For over 50 years, Else “Sprossa” Rønnevig has revitalized Norway’s cultural heritage by rescuing historic windows. Her innovative work has earned numerous awards, including the King’s Medal. Rønnevig is an inspiring example of how passion and determination can shift paradigms in cultural heritage conservation.
Spain - White Carpentry school Europa Nostra "Education, Training & Skills" Award Winner
Angel María Martín López, director of the White Carpentry School, heads the world’s only training centre dedicated exclusively to the ancient craft of white carpentry. This technique was used from the 13th to 18th centuries for constructing roof trusses and wooden ceilings in Spain. The “Carpintería de lo Blanco” School in Narros del Castillo now teaches this trade to future conservation professionals, ensuring its preservation.
Greece - Boulouki "Travelling Workshop on Traditional Building" - Europa Nostra "Education Training & Skills" Award Winner
Founded in 2018 in Athens, Boulouki is transforming traditional craftsmanship with modern building practices. Recognized with the 2024 European Heritage Award, their work in Epirus highlights a global commitment to sustainable architecture and cultural preservation. Follow their journey as they travel across Greece, sharing their expertise and revitalizing heritage.
Poland - Serfenta - Europa Nostra "Education Training & Skills" Award Winner
For nearly 15 years, Serfenta has blended traditional basketry with modern business. Based in Poland, they offer global workshops and bespoke orders, impacting countries across the world. Recognized with prestigious awards, Serfenta showcases a remarkable fusion of craft and entrepreneurial spirit.
World Music Day
Each year at the end of June, the World Music Day celebrates the extraordinary power of music to transcend boundaries and unite people from diverse cultures and backgrounds. Music serves as a universal language, fostering connections and promoting the appreciation of diversity. Musicians owe much of their expressive power to the skilled craftspeople who create and restore their instruments, the essential tools of their art. The expertise and dedication of these artisans are vital in maintaining the quality and tradition of musical instruments, ensuring the continued enjoyment and transmission of knowledge.
Building the Beat: Palau de la Música Catalana
Celebrate music by visiting the Palau de la Música Catalana in Barcelona, where architecture, music, and craftsmanship converge to create a Modernism masterpiece. Designed by Lluís Domènech i Montaner, this UNESCO World Heritage Site showcases stunning architecture and exceptional acoustics. Immerse yourself in the harmonious fusion of art and history.
Spain - Felipe Conde - Guitar builder and restorer
Since 1915, Felipe Conde guitars have exemplified excellence in the Spanish luthier tradition. Explore the timeless sound and artistry that four generations have perfected.
France - Centre de Formation Facture d'Orgues CFFO
The Vocational Training Center for Organ Building in Eschau, Elsass, is the only one offering organ making training in France. Established in 1985, it offers a unique apprenticeship program in both organ making and organ pipe making.
France - Victor Mangeol - Organ builder and restorer
From a family of musicians, Victor Mangeol transitioned to organ building, by training with great masters like Bernard Aubertin. Awarded by the Banque Populaire Foundation, he now preserves mechanical music heritage.
