The awarding of the Medal for Cultural Merit in Barcelona has become a significant event for Spanish society. It is not just a recognition of individual achievements, but also a sign of the growing influence of Catalan culture beyond Spain. For many residents, such awards prompt reflection on the role of language and memory in shaping identity.
The ceremony at the historic Saló de Cent brought together cultural figures from both Barcelona and Mexico. The presence of renowned editors, writers, and directors of cultural institutions lent the event special significance. At the center of attention was Marisol Schulz, whose biography is closely tied to Spanish and Catalan heritage. She grew up surrounded by literature and music that shaped the worldview of an entire generation of emigrants.
Connecting generations
The story of the Schulz family exemplifies how cultural traditions are passed down through generations. Her mother and grandmother were forced to leave Valencia after the Civil War but preserved their language and memories of their homeland. In Mexico, they maintained a connection with Catalan culture, listening to music and reading books in their native tongue. Stories like these lay the foundation for forging new cultural ties between countries.
A special place in Marisol’s memories belongs to Raimon’s concert in Mexico City in 1967. For many Spaniards far from home, that evening became a symbol of resistance and hope. At that time, the Catalan language was perceived as a language of struggle and freedom. Later, getting to know the works of Joan Manuel Serrat and Lluís Llach only strengthened this bond. The Schulz family often hosted famous musicians, making their home a hub for cultural exchange between Spain and Latin America.
Impact on Publishing
Marisol Schulz’s professional career is tied to the largest publishing houses in the Spanish-speaking world. Working in Mexico, she introduced local readers to the works of authors such as Mario Vargas Llosa, Arturo Pérez Reverte, and José Saramago. Thanks to her efforts, books from Latin America gained popularity in Spain, while Spanish authors found success in Mexico. Colleagues and friends praise her not only for her professionalism but also for her personal approach to authors and readers.
Since 2013, Schulz has led the Guadalajara International Book Fair (FIL), which is considered the second largest in the world. In 2024, Barcelona was the guest of honor at the event, an achievement made possible by the initiative of city authorities and the support of cultural organizations. The mayor of Barcelona and representatives of the creative industries expressed gratitude for the warm welcome and emphasized the importance of dialogue between cities.
Cultural Parallels
The medal presentation was accompanied by musical performances: singer Gemma Humet performed songs by Lluís Llach, adding emotion to the ceremony. Words of gratitude filled the hall for those who support cultural projects and help strengthen international ties. According to ElPais, such events are becoming increasingly important for promoting the Spanish language and culture on the global stage.
Interestingly, in recent times, issues of cultural identity and memory have become the subject of heated debate. For example, at a recent awards ceremony in Madrid, a writer’s speech sparked a lively reaction and discussions on social issues. To learn more about how such events shape public opinion, see the article about the high-profile speech at the award ceremony in the capital.
In recent years, in Spain and abroad, there has been growing recognition of individuals who foster cultural connections. Award ceremonies now serve not only as personal accolades but also as a tool for strengthening dialogue between regions and countries. These gatherings often spark conversations about the role of language, memory, and tradition in modern society. In 2025, similar awards were presented in Valencia and Seville, with an emphasis on preserving cultural heritage. Such events help shape new perspectives on history and the present, bringing together people from different generations and nations.
