Exhibition Celebrates First Decade of Pirineu Play Festival

An exhibition at Espai Ermengol in La Seu d'Urgell charts the first decade of the Pirineu Play Festival, from its launch in 2016 to the present.

Curated by Quimera Entertainment Company, the display traces how the event has transformed the town into a leading hub for gaming in Catalonia. It began as a municipal initiative backed by Cheap Films, drawing inspiration from Barcelona's Dau Festival. The inaugural edition in 2016 drew 2,500 visitors to a single venue, Sant Domènec hall. Today, it attracts over 12,000 participants across 18 buildings and 14 street spaces.

The exhibition features eight panels highlighting key aspects of the festival's growth. One focuses on its use of iconic locations, such as the crypt for mystery games, the town hall's plenary chamber for tournaments, and the diocesan museum for themed experiences.

Recognition for the sector is another emphasis. Since 2019, the festival has presented the Catalunya Awards to promote games in Catalan, along with the Friend of Play award. In 2024 and 2025, it hosted the Tabula Awards.

Social commitment stands out too, with educational programmes for schools and institutes, plus inclusive features like low-sensory zones and games adapted for people with visual impairments.

Supported by La Seu d'Urgell town hall and Peusa, the show occupies the third floor of Espai Ermengol until Thursday afternoon, 26 March. On Friday 27 March, the space will open a new exhibition on Elizabeth Magie, creator of the original Landlord's Game that inspired Monopoly.