In Almería, the Minister of Territorial Policy and Democratic Memory, Ángel Víctor Torres, led an emotional reburial ceremony for the remains of 'Los Coloraos', a group of 22 liberals who fought and perished in defense of the Constitution of 1812, opposing the absolutist regime.
The ceremony took place in front of the monument dedicated to the 'Martyrs of Freedom', recognized as a 'Place of Memory' since July 2024, and was attended by several authorities, among them the Secretary of State for Democratic Memory, Fernando Martínez, and the mayor of Almería, María del Mar Vázquez.
During the ceremony, Torres highlighted the importance of honoring the sacrifice of these men who, in the midst of the repression under Ferdinand VII, landed in Almería on August 24, 1824, pursuing ideals of freedom, justice, and rights. Unfortunately, many were captured and executed, their bodies left without the due recognition.
The minister stressed that, despite attempts to erase them from history, including the Francoist destruction of their monument, “Los Coloraos” remain alive in the collective memory thanks to the efforts of the Almerian community and defenders of democratic memory.
Vázquez, the mayor, stressed that the tribute is a symbol of the bond between the Almería community and this significant historical episode, a commemoration that takes place annually on August 24.
Additionally, on July 31, 2024, Minister Torres unveiled at that same site the first plaque certifying a 'Place of Democratic Memory' in Spain, an event he described as 'historic'. This recognition pays tribute to those martyrs whose courage and sacrifice are remembered with respect and admiration, recalling that they loved freedom above their own lives.
Source: Ministry of Territorial Policies and Democratic Memory.
