The Casa Colón Congress Palace is set to host a ceremony on 27 October at 19:00, honouring ten individuals, entities, and groups that have significantly contributed to the development, transformation, and identity of Huelva throughout its 150 years as a city. The event, which is open to the public until capacity is reached, is part of the commemorative programme celebrating the anniversary of Huelva's designation as a city, a title granted by Royal Decree signed by King Alfonso XII on 17 September 1876.
The awards will highlight various aspects of Huelva's evolution over the last century and a half, including social commitment, culture, economic activity, sports, maritime relations, knowledge, traditions, urban transformation, and international projection. The aim is to recognise the contributions of those who have played a part in the collective history of the city and helped shape its identity.
As announced by the mayor and confirmed by the municipal council, the awards will be presented in several categories:
- Social Commitment: The Sisters of the Cross Company for their 116 years of care for the most vulnerable.
- Culture: The José Caballero Foundation, linked to the legacy of the Huelva-born artist and his contributions to the city's cultural history.
- Defence of Historical Legacy: The Royal Columbian Society of Huelva, dedicated to the protection and dissemination of Columbian heritage for 146 years.
- Economic Promotion: The Huelva Business Federation for representing the business community and those who create jobs.
- Sport: The Real Club Recreativo de Huelva, the oldest football club in Spain, founded in 1889.
- Maritime and Port Vocations: The Port Authority of Huelva for its historical ties to the city's development and maritime relations.
- Knowledge: The University of Huelva, established through civic advocacy and contributing to the education of generations of residents.
- Traditions: The Very Ancient, Illustrious, and Venerable Brotherhood of Our Lady of the Crowned Cinta, celebrating its 625th anniversary this year.
- Urban Transformation: The Official College of Architects of Huelva for its role in shaping the city's architecture.
- International Projection: Carolina Marín, Olympic and world champion in badminton, recognised as an international sports figure from Huelva.
Additionally, a proposal will be made to award the Gold Medal of the City of Huelva to His Majesty King Felipe VI, a gesture of significant institutional meaning that symbolically links the current anniversary with the Royal Decree of Alfonso XII that granted Huelva city status 150 years ago. This commemoration serves as an opportunity to reflect on the journey since 1876 and to acknowledge the individuals, entities, and groups that have contributed to the construction of modern Huelva. The ceremony will thus bring together various expressions of Huelva's history and identity in a shared celebration with the public.
