A new generation of researchers
As part of the Premium.cat Historical Research Award at Baccalaureate 2025, two bright names have emerged among the finalists: Hellena Porta and Anna Fortes. With projects that touch topics deeply rooted in historical memory, these young researchers have captured the jury’s attention.
A job that illuminates the past
The jury has selected as a finalist a remarkable work entitled “Justice of Peace and Written Memory: Estivella in the days of the Second Republic”, made by Joan Mateu i Martín of the IES El Cid de Valencia. Tutored by Professor Francisco Coloma Saiz, this study deepens the history of Estivella during the Second Republic, using a local archive as the main source that treasures more than 3000 documents.
A journey through historical documents
Matthew’s research reveals the complexities of political and social life of the time, bringing a unique perspective to the history of this Valencian municipality. Its discoveries not only document past facts, but also offer reflections on the importance of collective memory.
The other finalists and their contributions
Apart from Matthew, Hellena Porta Valldosera of the Institut de l’Arboç and Anna Fortes Calderer of the Sant Nicolau School in Sabadell have presented research that deserve to be prominent. Porta has explored the theme of the Civil War with his work “Conservation of memory. The lost lives of the Civil War ”, under the supervision of Professor Jesus Estruch Cucarella.
Reviewing the story through personal lives
In the case of Anna Fortes, her project “The Facts of Fígols and the Mining Colony of Sant Corneli”, tutored by Professor Marc Mestres Pastor, offers a look at the dynamics of the mining communities, exploring his experiences and his legacy.
Rewards and recognition
The prize winner will not only get a scholarship that covers the enrollment of the first university course up to a maximum of 1,000 euros, but also will enjoy a year of subscription to the magazine Sàpiens. The finalists, on the other hand, will receive financial support for the enrollment of up to 500 euros and also a year of subscription to the magazine.
A jury committed to the story
The jury, made up of teaching professionals and history experts such as Ramon Batalla and Clàudia Pujol, among others, reflects the importance of this award in the promotion of historical research within the Catalan Countries.
Promoting historical research
The Premium.cat Prize for Historical Research at Baccalaureate seeks to foster research on contemporary historical memory, with special attention to periods such as the republican period, anti -Francoism and the democratic transition. This initiative not only values the work of students, but also emphasizes the relevance of history in today’s society.
Access to award -winning work
Those interested can consult the awarded works, including that of Joan Mateu and that of Hellena Porta, through the following links:
➤ Justice of peace and written memory: stive in the time of the Second Republic
➤ Conservation of memory. The lost lives of the Civil War
