Salvador Fuentes, the president of the Diputación de Córdoba, has underscored the significant cultural, heritage, social, and economic potential of Córdoba's cofrade community. He expressed confidence in the province's ability to become a national and international reference point, thanks to its artisanal quality, heritage conservation, and the integration of innovation and new technologies into sacred traditions.
This statement was made during the opening of the III Salón del Emprendimiento Cofrade at the Centro de Exposiciones, Ferias y Convenciones de Córdoba (CEFC). The event coincides with the II Feria Cofrade de España e Iberoamérica, which aims to showcase cofrade culture, artisanal talent, and technological innovation.
Fuentes highlighted the economic activity and new opportunities that can arise from deeply rooted heritage and traditions. He praised the extraordinary artisanal talent in Córdoba, stating, "This fair allows us to discover, project, and place our artisans where they deserve to be."
Additionally, he acknowledged the efforts of the Agrupación de Cofradías in preserving and recovering the province's artistic and religious heritage, noting that over 300 restoration projects have been completed, ensuring their legacy for future generations.
Fuentes also drew attention to the role of convents in the province, particularly the Carmelitas of Aguilar de la Frontera, which exemplify the silent yet extraordinary work of many religious congregations engaged in artisanal tasks, such as producing sweets to sustain their convents.
Encouraging the local population to explore the sacred heritage of both the capital and surrounding areas, Fuentes invited residents to discover the rich patrimony and diverse Semana Santa (Holy Week) traditions, which are well-recognised globally.
He concluded by announcing that Mexico will be the guest country at the fair, with representatives from Guatemala also expected to participate. The event will feature a blend of commercial exhibitions, cultural and educational activities, professional meetings, artisanal demonstrations, and initiatives focused on innovation and digitalisation, including technologies like artificial intelligence and virtual reality.
