The summer course titled ‘Cultural Manifestations in Levante Almeriense’, running until Wednesday, is part of the 27th edition of the Almería University's summer program in Cuevas del Almanzora. Directed by Antonio Llaguno and Rafael Quirosa-Cheyrouze, the course delves into the region's territorial identity through culture, considered by Quirosa-Cheyrouze as a "driver of democratization," amidst the sorrow following the fire in Los Gallardos and Bédar.
Although there was no official opening ceremony, the mayor of Cuevas del Almanzora, Antonio Fernández Liria, welcomed the students alongside the course directors, who are also participating as speakers. The course aims to highlight cultural life promoted by various public and private entities in the region's municipalities, and to emphasize how these cultural events foster socioeconomic development in rural areas. Specific examples include amateur theater in Vera and Los Gallardos, the shared literary scene, heritage recovery in Cuevas del Almanzora, publishing activities, the experience of the Society of Friends of Sorbas, and an analysis of the relationship between archaeology, identity, and local development, following a visit to the El Argar settlement in Antas.
Antonio Llaguno stressed that the course discusses "what gives identity to the territory where that culture is created," a theme consistent across the previous five editions. It has explored "an aspect that unites the region," concluding with the cultural manifestations found in these towns. According to Llaguno, this "cultural identity makes this region stand out in Almería," recalling the resurgence of institutions and the emergence of artists, publishers, and theater groups after the start of democracy, following a period of repression.
The speaker highlighted that "all this had a splendor whose consequences are still felt today in these towns." His presentation focused on 'Heritage Recovery as a Sign of Cultural Identity,' using Cuevas del Almanzora as a prime example, which "was forgotten and in ruins." A group of young people initiated its restoration, "linking our future to our past." He also mentioned "theater groups" and "a very important publishing house that has released nearly 500 books on the region over the years," defining the Almazora and Levante.
Rafael Quirosa-Cheyrouze lamented the tragedy of the fire but emphasized the need to "move forward and learn." Culture, chosen as the course's theme, serves as an "obligatory reference" for recovery after the drama. He pointed out the region's "history of activities" not always known externally, including theater, literature, publishing, and associations. He stressed the importance of collective reflection on the "value of culture in democratic societies," stating that "democracy is not understood without culture, and culture is not understood without democracy."
The course provides a "platform" for reflections stemming from years of accumulated experience. Quirosa-Cheyrouze highlighted the university's role in the province and how summer courses enable the UAL to extend its presence beyond its main campus. "We owe ourselves to our province," he stated. As Dean of the Faculty of Humanities, he argued for "the value of culture in the conquest of democracy," citing how literature, theater, cinema, and music helped Spanish society to "return" even during difficult times like the dictatorship. He mentioned singer-songwriters like Serrat, Labordeta, Lluís Llach, Carlos Cano, and Raimon, as well as literary works such as 'Nada' by Carmen Laforet, and authors like Buero Vallejo and Miguel Delibes, demonstrating that "culture is present as a driver of democratization, even in times of dictatorship."
