Day of Cantabria Institutions – July 28, 2024

History of Day of Cantabria Institutions

Most of us may think Spain is a culturally homogenous country but it is not so. In reality, Spain comprises several autonomous regions. Each one possesses a certain level of self-governance and distinct cultural identities. Cantabria on the northern coast is one such example.

Centuries ago, history first recorded the emergence of a region called Cantabria – home to one of the fiercest Celtic tribes the world had seen. The region’s history goes as far back as 36000 B.C. to 9000 B.C. Stories of a fascinating past are evident from the 6,500 caves in Cantabria — 60 of which contain cave paintings by people in the Paleolithic Age.

Eventually, the region came under the control of the Roman Empire despite the Cantabrians putting up a courageous fight. Cantabria was one of the last places to fall. The Roman conquest ushered in an era of turmoil, where everyone from the Visigoths to the Moors tried taking control of Cantabria. The region finally merged with local kingdoms such as Castile and Asturias.

At the turn of the 18th century, interest in the unique Cantabrian identity arose once again. Several movements of cultural and social resurgence ensued. Around this time, the Cantabrians become serious about forming an independent province. The first attempt took place at the start of the century but was unsuccessful. The wheels began to turn again at the end of the 18th century. Finally, the province of Cantabria was officially born in 1778. Today, Cantabria is an autonomous region in Spain. The Day of Cantabria Institutions commemorates the journey to self-governance and the people’s freedom.