Día de la Hispanidad – Spain’s holiday. History, controversies and significance for today’s Spain
On October 12, Spain celebrates Día de la Hispanidad – a holiday that arouses pride, but also controversy. It is a day when Spaniards celebrate their heritage, culture and language, but also confront the difficult history of conquests and colonialism. What is Día de la Hispanidad, where did this holiday come from, and what relevance does it have for contemporary Spain?
What will you find in the article?
History of this holiday
Día de la Hispanidad, or the Day of Hispanidad, we celebrate on October 12. This date is not a coincidence, for it was on October 12, 1492 that Christopher Columbus reached America, which began a new era in world history. Initially, the holiday had a religious and patriotic character, and its aim was to commemorate the “discovery” of the New World by the Spaniards.
In 1918, in Spain, Día de la Raza (Day of the Race) was officially celebrated for the first time, which over time transformed into Día de la Hispanidad. In 1958 the holiday gained official status, and since 1987 it has been the National Holiday of Spain (Fiesta Nacional de España). On this day in Madrid there is a grand military parade with the participation of the royal family and the most important politicians.
Controversies around the holiday
Día de la Hispanidad, though for many Spaniards is a source of pride, also raises numerous controversies – both in Spain itself and in Latin American countries. Critics emphasize that the “discovery” of America by Columbus marked the beginning of brutal colonization, destruction of indigenous cultures, mass deaths and slavery.
In Latin America, October 12 is often celebrated as Día de la Resistencia Indígena (Day of Indigenous Resistance) or Día de la Diversidad Cultural (Day of Cultural Diversity). In many cities in Spain, especially in Catalonia and the Basque Country, the holiday is not celebrated with enthusiasm – on the contrary, it becomes an occasion for demonstrations in favor of independence and criticism of Spanish nationalism.
Nowadays, more and more voices say that Día de la Hispanidad should be an occasion for reflection on the difficult history, and not only a celebration of national pride.
Significance of the holiday for today’s Spain
Día de la Hispanidad is for many Spaniards an opportunity to celebrate a shared identity, language and culture that connect millions of people around the world. Spanish is today the second most widely used language in the world, and Spanish culture—from literature, through music, to cuisine—has a huge influence on other countries.
Contemporary celebrations of the holiday are not only the military parade in Madrid, but also numerous cultural events, concerts, exhibitions and meetings. It is a time when Spaniards can feel pride in their heritage, but also reflect on its complexity.
It is worth noting that for many people the Day of Hispanidad is also a celebration of the Spanish-speaking community worldwide—from Europe, through Latin America, to the Philippines and Africa. It is a day when the role of the Spanish language as a bridge connecting different nations and cultures is highlighted.
What do Día de la Hispanidad celebrations look like?
The main highlight of the celebrations is the military parade in Madrid, broadcast by national media. It includes representatives of all branches of the armed forces, as well as the royal family and the top politicians. In many cities, there are concerts, flamenco dance performances, tastings of Spanish dishes and events promoting culture.
In schools and cultural institutions there are history lessons, workshops and exhibitions devoted to Spanish culture and language. For many families it is also an opportunity to spend time together and celebrate national identity.
The Day of Hispanidad and contemporary challenges
In recent years, there is increasing talk about the need for a new perspective on Día de la Hispanidad. In the age of globalization, migration and growing historical awareness, the holiday becomes an opportunity for dialogue about the past and the future of Spain. Many people advocate that Día de la Hispanidad should be not only a celebration of national pride, but also a reflection on historical responsibility and respect for diversity.
Modern Spain is a multicultural country in which people of different origins, languages and traditions live side by side. The Day of Hispanidad can be an opportunity to build bridges and mutual understanding, if it is celebrated with openness and respect for all sides of history.
Summary
Día de la Hispanidad is a holiday that reflects Spain’s complex history – from great geographical discoveries, through the difficult heritage of colonialism, to contemporary pride in language and culture. For some it’s a reason for joy and celebration, for others an opportunity for critical reflection. Regardless of perspective, October 12 remains one of the most important days in the Spanish calendar, reminding of the richness and diversity of Spanish heritage.
This article was prepared for everyone who wants to better understand Spanish culture, history and contemporary life.
