“How to talk about the Royal Fortresses of Languedoc?” A training course rooted in the region

A training course to support mediation concerning the Royal Fortresses of Languedoc

To support local stakeholders in their discourse and mediation efforts, a training course titled “How to talk about the Royal Fortresses of Languedoc” was offered to site staff and tourism professionals.

Organized into three sessions across the region—in Carcassonne, Quillan, and Cucugnan—to facilitate access to the training, it reached 31 participants.

Better understanding and better communication

In particular, it provided an opportunity to revisit concepts associated with “Cathar Country” and the “Cathars,” and to explain the historical context of the designation “Royal Fortresses of Languedoc.” Participants were thus able to better understand the issues related to this appellation within the framework of the UNESCO World Heritage candidacy.

A time for exchange and dialogue

Beyond theoretical contributions, these sessions also served as platforms for exchange, allowing participants to share their experiences and questions regarding mediation and the naming of sites.