"Werner Bellwald, born in Basel in 1960, is a versatile cultural scientist and historian from Valais. His career took him to Basel, Vienna, Aix-en-Provence and Freiburg im Breisgau, where he obtained a doctorate in European ethnology and history. Werner Bellwald has published over twenty books and brochures as well as more than eighty articles on topics such as rural architecture, history, trade, industry and customs. As managing director of the Valais Museum Association and as a lecturer at the University of Basel, he was able to put his broad knowledge into practice.

Werner Bellwald's work is characterized by the research and presentation of mountain culture and history. His commitment to cultural diversity and his understanding of the Alpine world have had a lasting impact on the mountains not only as a geographical landscape, but also as a cultural one. His bulky waste museum in the Lötschental reflects his deep interest in the sustainable use of resources and creation.

Werner Bellwald's work is a living example of how education and cultural preservation can make a significant contribution to the protection and appreciation of the mountain world. His museum work, his films and his publications such as „Umnutzung von Ökonomiebauten. Ein Ratgeber zum Erhalten oder Umbauen von Speichern, Stadeln, Ställen und Scheunen“ (A guide to preserving or converting granaries, barns, stables and barns) in 2011 or „Dikki Suppa. Ein Dialektwörterbuch aus dem Lötschental“ (Thick soup. A dialect dictionary from the Lötschental) in 2020."

Albert Mountain Award 2024