A bullfighter and a veterinary advocate for rural life—two distinct paths that illustrate the depth of Andalusia. These were among Córdoba’s contributions recognized at this year’s Andalusian Medals ceremony, underscoring the region’s rich variety of talents born in Andalusia and flourishing across different walks of life.
Manifesting the region’s diverse talent, 85-year-old bullfighter Manuel Benítez El Cordobés and the young veterinarian, writer, and feminist María Sánchez Rodríguez accepted honors in the Projection of Andalusia category. Their presence reflected a lifelong bond with the mountains and landscapes of Seville, where families have roots stretching back generations. The Environmental Merit category acknowledged Sánchez Rodríguez for her environmental advocacy and her dual identity as veterinarian and poet, a stance the president highlighted as a steadfast commitment to the Andalusian countryside.
Moreno highlights Andalusian identity in a televised moment
El Cordobés: “One day it will be my turn”
Moved and grateful, El Cordobés dedicated the medal to Andalusia, his wife Mari Ángeles, and their children. He spoke of the moment as a long time coming, recalling the nerve and pride in reaching out to the head of the Andalusian government. He described the award as a culmination of his career, a finale he accepted with pride and emotion.
The ceremony carried a pink note alongside the verdiblanca medals. A reconciliatory embrace between Manuel Benitez and Manuel Díaz added a personal moment, with family members present—his son, brother Julio, his wife Virginia Troconis, and their daughters. At La Maestranza’s entrance, a veteran bullfighter offered encouragement to continue fighting in unity, a shared sentiment echoed by the event’s leadership. The El Cordobés Foundation, along with the Montilla Moriles DO president, highlighted Andalusia’s role in spotlighting bullfighters on national and international stages through a long career.
A nod to humanitarian values came from the Andalusian Medal Police Unit, recognizing work to protect minors and victims of gender-based violence. Córdoba agents were represented by Inspector Rogelia Luque de Pedro Abad in this section.
Medal to Mercedes Moll for breaking glass ceilings
The gala began with a tanguillo homage to Julio Pardo and took place at Seville’s La Maestranza Theater, a venue that brings together a tapestry of Andalusian voices. Mercedes Moll, a businesswoman and longtime public servant connected to Córdoba through her family, has lived in Seville for years and was raised in Granada before making Seville her home. Moll has held leadership roles and participated in regional and national governance, earning recognition with the Manuel Clavero Arévalo Medal, awarded alongside bailaora Pilar Távora for a career that pushed past barriers. The award recognized Moll’s leadership and influence across journalism, business, and civic life in Andalusia.
The year also honored Juan Valdés, an Extremaduran by birth who embraced Andalusian identity and was celebrated as a representative of the arts in the region, receiving the Medal of Fine Arts for his contributions to Andalusian culture.
A celebration colored by music and dance
The event was brightened by Flamenco harp performances and performances by Siempre Así, delivering a rendition of a famous song with new regional flavor. The lineup included collaborations from the families of public figures and artists, with contemporary musicians creating improvised pieces that celebrated Andalusia’s voice. The ceremony reflected ongoing efforts to increase female representation, even as men continued to form the majority of awardees. The host Eva González appeared in a stylish, modern ensemble that challenged traditional gender expectations for such events.
Cordoba’s presence in governance and culture
The ceremony drew a broad Córdoba contingent, including the city’s mayor and other political figures who had appeared in public life at the Andalusian Parliament. The University of Córdoba and Rabanales 21 were represented, along with leaders from nonprofit and business sectors. Members of cultural and civic organizations joined in, underscoring Córdoba’s ongoing role in regional leadership. Esteemed figures in cinema, theatre, TV, and flamenco were celebrated, including Pilar Távora, who dedicated her medal to family, especially her father. The event also acknowledged performers and researchers who have shaped Andalusian arts and sciences across generations.
Bisbal: “Andalusia is like a mother you love”
The awards also recognized Favorite Sons of Andalusia and other eminent contributors who have advanced the region through studies, performances, discoveries, and public service. The singer from Almería, David Bisbal, and the late Lola Flores were celebrated for their ties to Andalusia, with Bisbal recalling a sentiment of kinship that emphasizes the nurturing presence of Andalusia as a mother figure. The ceremony commemorated the region’s ongoing cultural and political contributions, treating the audience to a moment of shared pride and identity.