The meeting, which took place between the councilors of Vila-real and the Culture councilor of Xàtiva, Alfred Boluda Perucho, highlighted the strong historical and symbolic links uniting both cities. Both municipalities share a collective memory as “burned towns” during the War of Succession, a fact that has shaped their identity.
During the meeting, the figure of Carles Sarthou was emphasized as a key element connecting Vila-real and Xàtiva, both culturally and patrimonially. It was recalled that Sarthou himself defined these two localities as his “two Valencian homelands,” highlighting their personal importance to him.
From Vila-real, a work schedule has been proposed that includes a technical review of files, the exchange of documentation, and progress in institutional collaboration. The main objective is the commemoration of the 150th anniversary of Carles Sarthou's birth, which Vila-real will celebrate in November 2026 with a specific program. For this celebration, the Xàtiva City Council has been asked for its collaboration through the transfer of materials, digital reproductions, technical advice, and participation in outreach and exhibition activities.
The Vila-real delegation particularly highlighted the value of the documentary and photographic collection preserved in Xàtiva, as well as Sarthou's role as an archivist, museologist, and heritage defender. The meeting also opened new avenues of cooperation, such as the possible coordination between municipal bands from both cities for the commemoration; the study of a shared heritage axis around Sant Pasqual and the convent of Sant Onofre in Xàtiva, and the exchange of documentation, bibliography, and museum materials related to their common history. The Vila-real City Council has highly valued the willingness shown by the Xàtiva delegation and has reiterated its commitment to continue advancing together.




