Aiming to explore some of the province’s most emblematic natural corners up close, the Instituto Alicantino de Cultura Juan Gil-Albert unveils its new program, Rutas con huella. This free lecture series starts on Sunday, May 19, in Banyeres de Mariola, inviting attendees to learn about the area through expert-led talks and guided in-situ discussions amid stunning landscapes.
The initiative is organized by the Artistic Heritage Department of the Eusebio Sempere Department of Arts and Audiovisual Communication. It seeks to promote the province’s cultural, archaeological, natural, and scenic heritage by bringing specialists to each selected site, where they will deliver on-site lectures to participants, enriching the experience with local context and firsthand insights.
The first event follows the route of Banyeres de Mariola’s paper mills, guided by Gabriel Guillén, an authority on Industrial Heritage. This engaging walk links three of the nine mills that operated along the Vinalopó valley between the 18th and 20th centuries, highlighting a pivotal chapter in the region’s industrial past.
The second gathering is scheduled for June 9 in the Polop Gorge. Archaeologist Miguel Botella Manchón will lead a walk to the aqueducts, fountains, and hydraulic structures that feed the Acequia Mare, the Polop Gorge, and nearby springs, with careful attention to the Canal’s channels and the natural sources. On September 29, the program moves to the Relleu Reservoir to explore the rehabilitated Camí de les Ripalmes or Camí dels Fasamais, offering a landscape of restored pathways and water works.
Lastly, historians Daniel Belmonte and Ana Satorre will head the fourth session in Crevillent’s Barranc d’Amorós, starting from the Los Molinos Environmental Education Center and running along the corridor beside the Barranc d’Amorós. All four sessions are free and require prior registration, which can be completed through the Instituto Alicantino de Cultura’s website.
Illustration Sessions
Continuing Gil-Albert’s May program, Casa Bardin hosts the opening lecture of the first DibujALC Illustration and Comics Days. Miguel Calatayud will speak on Wednesday, May 15, with works on display and a dialogue between the artist and participants. The second date, May 16, will take place at Casa Mediterráneo and requires prior registration. It features master classes led by illustrators Pablo Auladell, Javier Sáez Castán, Ana Oncina, and Lola Lorente.
Each artist will lead two sessions with hands-on demonstrations at tables prepared for the workshops. The format blends direct interaction with attendees and opportunities to enjoy public spaces for free drawing and creative practice.
The event concludes with a note of creative exchange and shared sketches, inviting participants to experience drawing in a social and open setting.