The use of XANES spectroscopy, both in classical and in dispersive geometries, is illustrated for the study of copper-based catalysts under in situ or in operando conditions. As case studies, copper-exchanged MFI zeolites and CuCl2/gamma-Al2O3 systems are considered. In the former case, in situ XANES spectroscopy was used to characterise well defined complexes (Cu+ N-2, Cu+(CO)(3), Cu+(NH3)(CO) and Cu+(NO)(2)) formed on copper ions inside the zeolite cavities under controlled conditions. From these results, useful information concerning the symmetry of the formed complexes can readily be gained. The latter case shows how the use of dispersive XANES spectroscopy allows to follow, in real time, the evolution of a system in working conditions. The simultaneous determination of the catalyst activity and of the average oxidation state of copper in the catalyst allows the evolution of a system in working conditions to be followed in real time. The criteria used for the quanti. cation of the Cu(I) and Cu(II) fraction from XANES spectra are discussed in detail.