The Route of Quixotic Values, integrated into the Quixote Legacy 2026 programme, has reached Manzanares, showcasing a day filled with heritage, theatre, music, sports, and gastronomy. Organised by the Diputación de Ciudad Real in collaboration with the local council, the event attracted residents and visitors to various locations throughout the town.
María Jesús Pelayo, the first vice president of the Diputación and head of the Sociocultural and Tourism Promotion Area, explained that the route aims to "highlight our identity, the Manchego culture," through a programme designed to "showcase what we have and create opportunities." Pelayo asserted that Quixotic heritage extends beyond mere patrimony to encompass values such as loyalty and friendship, stressing the need to "leave a legacy where we understand what we possess."
She highlighted the provincial institution's commitment to reach all municipalities, "from the smallest to the largest," and noted that the province boasts two natural parks, two national parks, a rich gastronomy, traditions, and popular festivals. Pelayo remarked that activities promoted by the Diputación de Ciudad Real are yielding returns and attracting visitors, referencing a record year for domestic tourism in the previous year.
Additionally, Pelayo advocated for collaboration among institutions, local councils, the private sector, and the media to implement these initiatives, expressing her gratitude to the Manzanares Town Hall and its mayor for their support in organising the event.
Julián Nieva, the mayor of Manzanares, thanked the Diputación for including the town in the initiative, stating that a city like his, with approximately 250 cultural proposals each year, fits "like a glove" with the spirit of this route. He emphasised that Quixote "represents the best of all of us" and embodies values such as loyalty, friendship, and common sense. The mayor reaffirmed the institutional loyalty between the town hall and the provincial institution, asserting that culture is what "liberates men and women."
The cultural and tourist route commenced at the Cheese Museum, allowing attendees to explore part of the city's heritage. The courtyard of the Cheese Museum hosted a theatrical performance inspired by Cervantes' world. Before the tour began, Pelayo and the mayor greeted participants in various activities.
At the Rafael Zárate Molero Cultural Centre, an event focused on the Children's Quixote was held, where young participants engaged in a scientific-literary mission, a scavenger hunt, and a play area to immerse themselves in Cervantes' universe through play. Following this, the Cultural Centre hosted a sports activity and a performance by "CU4TRO Cover Band," presented by Raquel Méndez.
Subsequently, the establishment “La Bota de Oro” offered a "showcooking" with a tasting session, showcasing Manchego products. The Provincial Route of Quixotic Values, which has already visited places like Pedro Muñoz, will continue on 14 November in Villanueva de la Fuente. The Quixote Legacy 2026 initiative, promoted by the Diputación de Ciudad Real, aims to disseminate Cervantes' legacy and highlight the cultural, patrimonial, and gastronomic wealth of the province.
