José Caro, the delegate for Education, Culture and Sports in Ciudad Real, has underscored the vital role of local communities in the preservation of cultural heritage during his recent appointment as Knight of the Lordship of Quevedo. This recognition was bestowed upon him during the Quevedian Days event held in Torre de Juan Abad.
During the ceremony, Caro expressed his gratitude to the mayor, María Fresneda, the Town Hall, and the Friends of Campo de Montiel Association for this honour, which he received “with immense satisfaction, but also with humility.” He articulated that the accolade represents the pride of a community in its history and heritage. He also congratulated Guadalupe Díaz, who was named Lady of the Lordship of Quevedo.
Caro highlighted the deep connection between the renowned writer Francisco de Quevedo and Torre de Juan Abad, where Quevedo spent significant periods of his life, finding a space for reflection and literary creation. More than four centuries after his death, Quevedo continues to astonish with “his mastery of language, irony, critical perspective on society, and ability to expose human contradictions.”
The delegate commended all individuals and groups involved in the Quevedian Days for successfully bringing history to the public, transforming literature into a shared experience, and making the Spanish Golden Age accessible and engaging for diverse generations.
Drawing from his experience as an educator and his institutional responsibilities, Caro advocated for the educational dimension of such initiatives, asserting that “understanding our history and heritage is essential for cultivating free, critical citizens who are aware of the world they inhabit.”
He pointed out that Torre de Juan Abad serves as an exemplary model of how municipalities can leverage their heritage for knowledge and development, citing landmarks such as the Quevedo House-Museum, the Church of Our Lady of the Olmos, and its historic organ.
Furthermore, he argued that culture should be accessible to all citizens, regardless of their location. “Living in a small village should not equate to having fewer opportunities to access culture, participate in it, or enjoy our heritage,” he stated.
In closing, Caro reiterated his gratitude for the appointment, expressing that he receives it “with great affection and the satisfaction of feeling, from today onwards, more permanently connected to Torre de Juan Abad.”
