Toledo is hosting the 52nd edition of the National Gastronomy Awards, an event that underscores the city's rich culinary heritage. Mayor Carlos Velázquez highlighted the historical connection between Toledo and gastronomy, coinciding with the 501st anniversary of the printing of the first recipe book in Spanish.
During the ceremony held at the 'El Greco' Congress Palace, Velázquez expressed his condolences to the families affected by the recent train accident in Urda, wishing a swift recovery to the injured.
Velázquez announced that the future provincial gastronomic centre, San Ildefonso, part of the 'Toledo Emerge' rehabilitation project, will enhance the promotion of local products, chefs, and the culinary traditions of Toledo. He stated, "Gastronomy transcends its economic dimension and is an essential part of culture. I would consider it even more important, as it represents both Spanish and Toledo cultural identity."
The mayor also reviewed various initiatives by the Toledo City Council aimed at integrating heritage, culture, and gastronomy, including the third edition of Degusto and the Sabor Toledo Fair, which attracted over 60,000 visitors to the newly renovated Parque de la Vega.
He noted that Toledo's historical link to cuisine is exemplified by the first recipe book, titled 'Libro de recetas, guisados, manjares y potajes', printed in the city 501 years ago.
Velázquez expressed gratitude to the Royal Academy of Gastronomy for choosing Toledo to host the gala and acknowledged the contributions of local professionals in making the event possible. He remarked, "Toledo is destined to host significant events and grand occasions," while expressing satisfaction in welcoming representatives from across Spain and abroad.
This year is particularly significant for Toledo, marking the 40th anniversary of its designation as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the 450th anniversary of the Teatro de Rojas, and the 800th anniversary of the Primada Cathedral.
Among the award recipients at this year's ceremony were Toledo restaurateur Adolfo Muñoz, who received a special recognition from the Royal Academy of Gastronomy, and the company García-Baquero, which plans to open a Cheese Museum in Toledo in the coming months. Other notable winners included Pedro Sánchez de Bagá for Best Head Chef, Emilio Medina for Young Talent Award, and Casto Copete for Best Restaurant Management.
In closing, Velázquez reiterated his condolences for the victims of the Urda train accident, stating, "While the official mourning lasted three days, the real mourning, the mourning of feelings and life, continues in the city and province."
