Quintanar de la Orden began its third series of heritage conferences on 12 November with a lecture entitled 'La Mancha, heritage, art and culture', presented by Marciano Ortega Molina, a writer, Cervantes expert, and researcher of local heritage and ethnography. The event took place at the Sala El Recreo at 19:30 and was attended by the Mayor of Quintanar de la Orden, D. Pablo Nieto Toldos, several members of the Municipal Corporation, and Agustín Conde, a national deputy for Toledo and former Secretary of State for Defence, who also participated in this inaugural cultural gathering.
The presentation was led by Tomás Verdugo, who welcomed attendees and introduced the speaker, highlighting Ortega's extensive connection to the culture, history, and traditions of the locality and the surrounding region.
During his talk, Marciano Ortega provided an overview of the various manifestations of Manchego heritage, discussing both natural and cultural heritage while distinguishing between tangible and intangible heritage. He emphasised the rich cultural legacy of Castilla-La Mancha and the importance of understanding, preserving, and passing it on to future generations. Ortega referenced natural landscapes, protected reserves, and the significance of water, stressing the need to safeguard the natural environment.
He also delved into cultural heritage, mentioning historical monuments, archaeological sites, archives, and other material assets, while not overlooking the intangible aspects that form part of Manchego identity, such as traditions, customs, music, and popular expressions.
Throughout the lecture, illustrated with various images and examples, Ortega encouraged attendees to reflect on the value of inherited heritage and the collective responsibility to protect it, asserting that heritage is a fundamental part of our history, roots, and identity. The presentation was engaging and enriching, capturing the interest of those present and receiving an excellent reception from the audience, who appreciated this close and educational approach to the region's heritage.
This lecture officially marked the beginning of the third heritage conference series in Quintanar de la Orden, a programme aimed at highlighting the history, art, culture, and identity markers of Quintanar de la Orden and La Mancha, bringing its heritage closer to both residents and visitors.
The day concluded in a relaxed atmosphere with a light snack and a celebratory wine, allowing attendees to share thoughts and converse following the lecture, thus wrapping up this first meeting of the conference series.
