Plaza de los Artistas in Calaceite

Throughout its history, Calaceite has established itself as a significant meeting point for artists, writers and researchers. This rich intellectual tradition has deep roots, evidenced by the presence of notable figures from the early 20th century.

Among the most distinguished intellectual antecedents of the town, we find local researchers of the calibre of Juan Cabré and Santiago Vidella. Their studies not only enriched local knowledge but also attracted eminent archaeologists to the area, such as Henri Breuil and Pere Bosch Gimpera. Likewise, renowned philologists such as Antoni M. Alcover and Francesc de B. Moll joined this cultural ferment, marking a period of intense intellectual activity in the region.

From the 1970s onwards, Calaceite reaffirmed its cultural appeal, becoming the temporary or permanent home of numerous writers, artists and painters. Among them are names as influential as the Chilean writer José Donoso and Mauricio Wacquez, the poet Ángel Crespo, and the celebrated painters Romà Vallès, Albert Ràfols Casamada and Maria Girona. Local artist Teresa Jassà has also contributed to this vibrant community.

Various initiatives have strengthened Calaceite’s cultural profile. The creation of the Fundación Noesis, the holding of the International Literary Meeting “La Nouvelle Fiction” and the location in the town of the headquarters of the “Associació Cultural del Matarranya” since 1989 have contributed significantly to the cultural enrichment of the locality. In recognition of all the artists and intellectuals who have converged and left their mark on this town, a square was erected in their honour in 1999. Since 2002, Calaceite has proudly held the title of cultural capital of the Comarca del Matarraña/Matarranya, underscoring its undeniable relevance in the cultural and artistic sphere of the region.