A recognition of Madrid's excellence
On May 15, Madrid will celebrate its most emblematic festival, San Isidro, with a special ceremony in which 15 Honorary Medals will be awarded to individuals and entities that have made a significant impact on the Spanish capital. Deputy Mayor Inma Sanz announced this distinction after the recent Government Board meeting, highlighting the City Council's commitment to recognising those who "contribute and make the city better".
Among the awardees are three personalities who will receive the Honorary Medal. The first is Dr. Mariano Barbacid, a pioneer in cancer research, known for his recent advancement in the treatment of pancreatic tumours. His work has been crucial in opening new avenues in oncological therapy, and he is currently raising funds to bring his research into the human realm.
The Guillén Cuervo family saga, composed of iconic actors such as Fernando Guillén and Gemma Cuervo, will also be recognised. Their artistic legacy has profoundly influenced Spanish theatre, cinema, and television for decades. Their children continue this path, ensuring that their impact endures.
Lastly, Valentín Díez Morodo will receive an Honorary Medal for his work at the Casa de México Foundation in Spain, where he has fostered cultural and business ties between both countries.
Not only individual figures will be honoured; institutions fighting for social causes will also be awarded. The Association for the Prevention, Reintegration, and Care of Prostituted Women (Apramp) will be recognised for its tireless work against trafficking and sexual exploitation.
In the cultural sphere, notable names include Paloma Sánchez-Garnica, who recently won the 2024 Planeta Prize; Paula Quinteros, founding journalist of the digital media The Objective; as well as the José Cubero 'Yiyo' Bullfighting School, dedicated to preserving a deeply rooted cultural tradition in Madrid.
Madrid will also pay tribute to its culinary traditions with recognition for Amadeo Lázaro Catalina, founder of Casa Amadeo Los Caracoles. This establishment has been a gastronomic symbol since the 1940s and represents the best of traditional Castilian cuisine.
Sports are not left behind: Elisa Aguilar, president of the Spanish Basketball Federation; Koke Resurrección from Atlético de Madrid; and Sergio Llull from Real Madrid will be awarded for their contributions to Spanish sports.
Finally, several companies will receive distinctions for their trajectory and economic impact. Among them is Cortefiel, which started as a small haberdashery over a century ago; Helena Revoredo Delvecchio, president of Prosegur; Antonio Garrigues Walker in the legal field; and Capas Seseña, a reference in Madrid's craftsmanship.
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