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Joan Duch Mas, historian and cultural activist from Guimerà, dies at 89

Recognized for his work in defending and promoting historical heritage, particularly in Guimerà.

Generic image of a historic building facade with a balcony and warm light.
IA

Generic image of a historic building facade with a balcony and warm light.

Historian, teacher, and cultural activist Joan Duch Mas has died at the age of 89 in Guimerà, leaving a legacy deeply linked to the defense and promotion of historical heritage.

Joan Duch Mas, a key figure in the history and culture of Guimerà, has passed away at the age of 89. His death, which occurred on Thursday, marks the end of a life dedicated to research, teaching, and the firm defense of historical heritage, with a special connection to the Urgell region.
A Doctor of History from the Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona and a member of the Reial Acadèmia Catalana de Belles Arts de Sant Jordi, Duch focused his prolific research career on archaeology and heritage history. His extensive written work, primarily centered on the study and preservation of Guimerà's historical legacy, stands as a valuable testament to his commitment.
One of the most significant moments of his activism was his crucial role in 1967 in preventing the demolition of the monastery of Santa Maria de Vallsanta, demonstrating his determination in heritage protection.
In the educational field, his teaching vocation left a significant mark. He worked as a teacher in rural schools and later as a professor at the UNED, eventually becoming the director of the Àngel Guimerà school in Tàrrega. From this environment, he promoted pioneering initiatives such as the 'Misión Rescate' campaign in the late sixties, to raise students' awareness about the value of heritage.
Duch was also one of the founders of key entities for the region's culture, such as the Grup de Recerques de les Terres de Ponent and the Associació Guimera.info. Additionally, he occasionally collaborated with the weekly newspaper NOVA TÀRREGA.
Alongside his academic and cultural work, he developed a notable artistic career. His work evolved from drawings linked to his archaeological research to more abstract compositions inspired by figures like Piet Mondrian, including periods focused on medieval and rural architecture.
In April 2025, the Museu de Guimerà paid tribute to him with the inauguration of the exhibition 'Recopilació', which reviewed his artistic evolution. The museum also features a permanent space dedicated to his figure, recognizing his contribution and constant commitment to the municipality.

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