The Government of Castilla-La Mancha has recognised the individuals and organisations awarded the Medals for Cultural Merit during a gala held in Talavera de la Reina. The event, which focused on dance, served to honour the talent, dedication, and contributions of those involved in the development and preservation of regional culture.
Amador Pastor, the regional Minister of Education, Culture and Sports, delivered remarks during the ceremony, which was presided over by the regional President, Emiliano García-Page. Pastor noted that "culture is in constant motion, and each generation inherits what previous ones have created to find new ways of interpreting it." He emphasised that the primary value of culture lies in its ability to express emotions, share experiences, and transmit knowledge.
During his speech, Pastor highlighted the diversity of cultural disciplines represented among the awardees, which included literature, music, theatre, film, visual arts, photography, folklore, and heritage conservation. Notable recipients included creators such as Daniel Ferrer, Beatriz Clemente, Kike Aspano, Hugo de la Riva, Irene Márquez, and Pepe Ortega, as well as the Instituto de Estudios Albacetenses and initiatives related to the conservation of the mural paintings in the Church of Nuestra Señora de la Asunción in Cardenete.
Additionally, awards were presented to the Grupo Folclórico 'La Abuela Santa Ana', the 'Espiga de Oro' Theatre Festival in Azuqueca de Henares, and individuals Teresa Ases and Carlos Iglesias, along with the reading clubs of the Public Library of Guadalajara. These recognitions exemplify the importance of civic participation and the role of cultural associations and collectives.
Other recipients of the Medals for Cultural Merit included Clara Serrano Esteban, the Joven Orquesta de Cuenca, the Adae Alma dance academy in Talavera de la Reina, and Antonio Rubio, for their contributions to artistic creation, education, and promoting reading among children. Initiatives such as the digital magazine La Pecera from the Hospital and Home Educational Attention School in Guadalajara and the collaboration of Chemo Liconsa with various cultural projects were also acknowledged.
Pastor reiterated that "culture does not belong to a specific territory but to all people," highlighting the essential role of municipalities, associations, and collectives that keep traditions alive and bring various artistic expressions to society. He concluded by congratulating all the awardees, stating that "these medals are also a form of gratitude to those who create, research, preserve, teach, or bring culture to others." He added, "We inherit what others have built, which we enjoy, care for, and transform for those who come after us. Thanks to all the recognised individuals and organisations, our culture continues to grow."
