Description:
The White Carpentry School (Escuela de Carpintería de lo Blanco) in Narros del Castillo, Spain, is an educational initiative dedicated to preserving and transmitting the traditional craft of white carpentry, a specialised timber construction technique historically used in roof trusses and wooden coffered ceilings. Practised extensively between the 13th and 18th centuries, this craft shaped the architectural heritage of thousands of religious and civic buildings across Spain. Founded in 2014, the school was established to address the decline of traditional carpentry knowledge and the shortage of skilled professionals capable of conserving historic timber structures. Supported by the City Council of Narros del Castillo, the school provides specialised training for carpenters, architects, restorers and other heritage professionals, combining historical knowledge with practical craftsmanship. The school organises four training courses annually, each accommodating approximately 20 students. Courses are largely free of charge, with participants contributing a small amount towards materials and educational models. The curriculum covers the design, geometric layout and execution of traditional timber structures, enabling students to acquire practical skills in historic carpentry techniques. Graduates have applied their knowledge to the restoration of Spanish-Islamic roof structures and the incorporation of traditional Mudéjar carpentry techniques into contemporary work. The school's activities have also encouraged university educators to introduce white carpentry into academic programmes, extending the reach of this previously underrepresented field of study. Beyond its training courses, the school promotes public awareness through visits to historic towns, presentations and additional workshops. Recognised with a European Heritage Award in the Education, Training and Skills category in 2024, the initiative demonstrates how craft-led education can safeguard endangered building traditions, encourage the sustainable use of timber and create new opportunities for heritage professionals and local communities.