The Councillor for Culture, Elena Serrallé, has introduced the conference series titled ‘Albacete through its urbanism’ and a commentary screening of an aerial film of the city from 1929, both part of the activities organised for City Day. Serrallé expressed the aim of these events is to foster interest and strengthen the connection between residents and their city.
During the presentation, which included Jacinto Gonzalez, Vicente Pascual Carrión, and Almudena Blaya, the director and archivist of the Municipal Archive of Albacete, Serrallé emphasised that celebrating City Day also involves recognising the contributions of past generations in shaping Albacete. She stated, “We must reflect on how we have arrived at this point, understand our heritage, and consider what we wish to leave for future generations.”
Serrallé explained that these activities are part of the municipal responsibility to bring local heritage and history closer to citizens, highlighting the importance of providing opportunities for anyone interested in Albacete to learn more, ask questions, and engage in discussions about its past and future.
She noted that the 651 years of shared history allow for the recognition of those who have worked in the city, raised families, and contributed to its development. The councillor expressed gratitude to Aurelio Petrel and Vicente Pascual Carrión for their involvement in the commentary screening, as well as to Almudena Blaya and all speakers for sharing their knowledge with the public. She also praised the work of the Municipal Archive, stating, “To tell our story, we need to preserve it, study it, and make it accessible,” and thanked those dedicated to preserving and promoting the heritage.
Finally, Serrallé encouraged residents to participate in these activities and to take advantage of City Day to deepen their understanding of their history. The events are themed ‘The city drawn: from medieval village to future city. 1846-2026’ and will explore the evolution of Albacete through its urban planning, maps, and images. She explained, “Behind a street, a square, or a neighbourhood, there are decisions, needs, and ways of living. Understanding these allows us to better comprehend our city and feel more connected to it.”
The conference series ‘Albacete through its urbanism’ will commence on 12 November with a lecture by Elvira Valero de la Rosa titled ‘From chaotic village to the 1861 plan: how modern Albacete was born’. This session will provide insights into the urban transformation of the locality and the background of the current city. The programme will continue on 19 November with Rafael Vargas Lozano, who will deliver a lecture titled ‘Albacete: from projected city to lived city’, encouraging reflection on the relationship between urban planning and how citizens inhabit and personalise their spaces.
The series will conclude on 26 November with a round table discussion entitled ‘Albacete in debate: from historical plan to the city of tomorrow’, featuring Carmen García Martínez, Jacinto González Gómez, and Esteban Belmonte Martínez, moderated by Almudena Blaya Pascual. This final session will open discussions on the future of Albacete based on its urban trajectory. All three events will take place at 18:00 in the Unicaja Hall.
Additionally, on 24 November at 18:30, there will be a commentary screening of the 1929 aerial film of Albacete at the Municipal Film Library, located at Plaza del Altozano, 9. This session will include participation from Vicente Pascual Carrión Íñiguez and Aurelio Petrel Marín, who will guide the audience through these historical images of the city.
