The Valencia Institute of Democratic Memory, Human Rights and Public Liberties marked a significant milestone this Monday morning. Rosa Pérez Garijo, the Regional Minister for Inclusion and Transparency, received the keys to the project. The former Foreign Health building at the port, a site unused for years, will become the institute’s new home. The rehabilitation of the property is set in motion with the goal of opening doors to the public next year, before the end of the current legislative term.
Consell projects the Democratic Memory Institute in the Port of Alicante
The move represents a turning point after years of planning and negotiation. The region witnessed a concerted effort to secure a suitable location that could anchor the institute’s mission to preserve memory, promote human rights, and safeguard public liberties. Officials emphasized that the acquisition of the keys came after a lengthy process filled with hurdles, yet the path forward is clear and tangible. The leadership of the Consell pointed to the Port Authority meeting held earlier in the day as a decisive moment that unlocked the project’s next phase.
Officials outlined a realistic timetable. The Commission’s plan envisions a completion timeline of six to eight months, with preliminary works and essential renovations starting promptly. The project aims to transform a historic port building into a vibrant cultural and educational hub, where exhibitions, archives, and community programs can thrive. The chosen site stands out not only for its strategic location but also for its symbolic resonance within the city and the broader region. The Port Authority’s involvement underscores how public spaces can be repurposed to serve memory and civic education, reinforcing the social fabric of Alicante.
From the Consell’s perspective, locating the institute at the port aligns with a broader objective: to create accessible spaces for public reflection that honor past injustices while supporting current generations in understanding rights and freedoms. The administration noted that extensive collaboration with Alicante City Council made this outcome possible, and there is a shared sense of pride in finally realizing a project that had faced numerous administrative challenges. As plans advance, stakeholders expect a robust program of exhibitions, educational activities, and scholarly events that will engage residents and visitors alike, fostering dialogue and a deeper appreciation of democratic values.