The conference ‘Latest News from the Cathedral: From Visigothic Origins to the UNESCO Candidacy’, led by historian Carles Gascón Chopo, marked the start of the activity cycle. These initiatives aim to showcase the heritage of Alt Urgell, Andorra, and Ariège, seeking to revive the shared history among these territories.

Gascón provided a historical overview of nearly 1,500 years of the Cathedral of Santa Maria d’Urgell, highlighting its connection with the Principality of Andorra. He detailed how the funds for the Bishop's purchase of Andorran jurisdiction originated from the ongoing construction work at the Urgell cathedral.

The transnational bid, spearheaded by Andorra, encompasses 12 monuments from various periods, ranging from the Middle Ages to the 16th century. Mn. Josep M. Mauri, the Vicar General and diocesan delegate for heritage, emphasized the cultural benefits and the desire to forge stronger ties between La Seu, Andorra, and Foix, also anticipating enhanced economic relations.

The mayor of La Seu d’Urgell highlighted the significance of the cathedral achieving World Heritage status, foreseeing an immediate increase in tourism and economic activity for the city.

The event, held at the church of Sant Miquel, included a welcome and closing address by the Bishop of Urgell and Co-Prince of Andorra, Josep-Lluís Serrano. The conference introduction was delivered by Joan Reguant, coordinator of the UNESCO transnational candidacy dossier.