On Wednesday, October 29, Valencia will host a state memorial ceremony honoring the victims of the devastating DANA that claimed 237 lives across Spain a year ago. The Valencia region was hit especially hard, with 229 residents killed. This event marks the anniversary of the tragedy and will serve as a symbol of national mourning and support for families who are still recovering from the disaster.
The ceremony will take place at the Museo PrΓncipe Felipe in the City of Arts and Sciences (Ciudad de las Artes y las Ciencias). This iconic venue will gather officials, the victims’ relatives, and the country’s key figures. King Felipe VI and Queen Letizia are expected to attend and will lead the ceremony alongside leaders of national and regional bodies.
Among those invited are Prime Minister Pedro SΓ‘nchez, opposition leader Alberto NΓΊΓ±ez FeijΓ³o, as well as Carlos MazΓ³n, the head of the Valencian Community government. Despite recent protests over the authorities’ response during the disaster, he has confirmed his attendance. Mayors of affected cities and representatives from other autonomous communities will also be present.
The memorial will be secular and held in a solemn atmosphere. Only the king and three relatives of victims from different regions will give speeches. The program includes musical performances and a minute of silence in memory of those lost.
How and where to watch the ceremony
The broadcast will begin at 18:00 Spanish time. You can follow the ceremony live on TVE, as well as on radio stations and the RTVE Play online platform. The event will be hosted by Valencia journalist Lara Siscar.
This commemorative event is intended not only to honor the memory of those who lost their lives, but also to express gratitude to those who selflessly took part in rescue operations and recovery efforts after one of Spainβs most devastating natural disasters in recent years.
