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• 10 / 17 / 2008

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The distinction, granted by the Spanish government to renowned figures in world culture, was present to Alicia Alonso on Wednesday in the presence of the Spanish monarchs.

During the ceremony, King Juan Carlos affirmed that those who were presented with this year’s award contributed to the construction of a better world. He added that the medal was in recognition of her valuable work and career, “which arouse our admiration, encourage our sensitivity, and stimulate our intelligence.”

On behalf of the awarded, Spanish actor Antonio Banderas called upon artists to do away with vanity and to see art as a way to bring people together in times of confusion and violence.

Actresses Marisa Paredes and Berta Riaza; film-makers Antonio Isasi Isasmendi, from Spain, and Manuel de Oliveira, from Portugal; writer Jorge Semprún; designer Roberto Verino, and matador José Tomás were among the prize-winners, reported the Prensa Latina news agency.

Also participating in the ceremony were Spanish Minister of Culture César Antonio Molina; Corunna mayor Javier Losada; and Emilio Pérez Touriño, president of the Autonomous Community of Galicia (Xunta).

(PL)