The inaugural Ciutat Vella Awards took place today, honoring individuals and initiatives that have made significant contributions to the district of Ciutat Vella in Barcelona. The event, held at the Biomedical Research Park in Barceloneta, gathered around 250 attendees, showcasing a commitment to recognizing local efforts that enhance community life.
A celebration of local achievements
Established under the Pact for Ciutat Vella, these awards aim to highlight projects and entities deeply rooted in the area. The awards feature ten categories, each designed to acknowledge outstanding contributions across various fields such as social action, education, cultural preservation, and sustainability. Notably, a total prize fund of €10,000 was distributed among the winners, with each category receiving €1,000.
The recipients of this first edition include diverse organizations like Diàlegs de Dona for promoting civic values and Riborquestra for its social impact initiatives. Other notable winners are the Hospital de Dia for its scientific research on neurodegenerative diseases and Ràdio Nikosia for its constructive communication efforts within the community.
“These awards serve as a central element of the Pact for Ciutat Vella,” said Albert Batlle, Deputy Mayor and District Councillor. “They underline the excellent work being done across our four neighborhoods and help restore pride in belonging to Ciutat Vella.”
The ceremony also recognized 14 longstanding entities celebrating anniversaries of 25, 50, or 75 years. This acknowledgment not only honors their historical significance but also their ability to adapt over time while remaining vital parts of the community fabric.
The awards included special recognitions for organizations with deep roots in Ciutat Vella. For those celebrating 25 years, honorees included the Romea Foundation for Performing Arts and Linguapax International. The 50-year category featured groups like the Association of Aviators of the Republic and La Salle Comtal School’s Parents’ Association. Lastly, the award for 75 years was given to Penya Blanc-i-Blava Central.
Ivan Pera, Commissioner for the Pact for Ciutat Vella remarked that “these awards reflect collaborative efforts from both social and economic sectors involved in our strategic vision.” He emphasized how important it is to recognize projects that demonstrate solid commitment over time.
This initiative stems from discussions within the Pact aimed at enhancing visibility not just within Ciutat Vella but throughout Barcelona as a whole. By spotlighting these achievements, organizers hope to inspire further engagement from residents and stakeholders alike.
The establishment of these awards marks a significant step toward fostering community pride while encouraging ongoing contributions that benefit all residents. As Batlle noted during his speech: “It’s essential we continue to celebrate those who work tirelessly behind the scenes.” With plans already underway for next year’s event, there is optimism about building on this foundation to further strengthen ties within this historic district.
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