Ana Rosa Quintana Receives Capital’s Gold Medal in Madrid, Emphasizing Unity Across Spain
The esteemed journalist Ana Rosa Quintana was awarded Capital’s Gold Medal this Monday in a ceremony that highlighted her long-standing contributions to Spanish media. During the Festival of San Isidro, Quintana expressed gratitude for the recognition and reinforced her belief that Madrid represents more than a city—it is a national crossroads where the country’s diverse identities come together. In her remarks, she underscored the sense of belonging that comes from reporting on a city that she calls home and a nation that she sees as a shared project.
In the course of her speech, Quintana spoke warmly about her family roots, tracing them to Madrid’s working-class neighborhoods before they expanded into the broader urban landscape. She recalled growing up in Usera, a district that has evolved significantly over the years and is now renowned for its vibrant multicultural atmosphere. Quintana acknowledged the social conversations sparked by her words, noting that her experiences reflect the evolving identity of Madrid itself. She reminded the audience that this neighborhood has long been a bustling hub with a diverse spectrum of residents and businesses, and she celebrated the resilience and pride of those communities.
Quintana also highlighted the close connections that define Madrid, mentioning Lavapiés as another area that shaped her sense of belonging. She spoke of a city where family histories weave through streets, markets, and public life, noting that her father’s family hailed from Calle Mayor and that she has three children who live in Madrid. The sentiment she shared — to live in and celebrate one’s city — resonated with many who see Madrid as a place that nurtures personal and professional growth alike. Her words painted a portrait of a journalist who is deeply embedded in the fabric of the capital, someone who treats the city as a foundation for community and civic dialogue.
Quintana framed Madrid as a meeting point for people from all corners of Spain and beyond. She described the capital as the country’s crossroads, home to a rich tapestry of friends and colleagues from various regions, including a Catalan named Dalí and a Lorca from Granada, among countless others who come to Madrid to pursue their ambitions and lead meaningful lives. Her speech conveyed a powerful sense of national unity, underscoring that Madrid is not just a city of the moment but a living, breathing chapter in the broader story of Spain. In her closing words, Quintana reminded the audience that Madrid, and Spain itself, thrives when people come together to work, create, and share their lives with one another.
Throughout the ceremony, the host and audience recognized Quintana’s impact on journalism and Spanish culture, celebrating a career defined by dedication, clarity, and a connection to everyday life in Madrid. The Gold Medal ceremony served as a reminder that the city’s representatives and residents alike can draw inspiration from a journalist who views Madrid as a shared home — a place where dozens of voices contribute to a broader national narrative. In this sense, Quintana’s award was not only a personal milestone but a reflection of the city’s ongoing dialogue about identity, belonging, and the responsibilities that come with informing the public. The keynote takeaway from the evening was simple yet profound: Madrid embodies Spain, and Spain is stronger when its people recognize that strength in unity, diversity, and mutual respect. The accomplishment underscored how journalism can illuminate local roots while spotlighting the broader human story that connects every corner of the country. [Citation: Festival of San Isidro archives]