The presentation of the Ciudad de Alcalá awards and the procession of the patron San Mateo have marked the end of an intense weekend in Alcalá de Guadaíra. The mayor, Ana Isabel Jiménez, highlights the high community participation in the events on September 21.
The city of Alcalá de Guadaíra has experienced a weekend full of tradition surrounding September 21, the Day of the Patron San Mateo. In addition to the sporting event Subida al Águila, two significant events took place: the presentation of the Ciudad de Alcalá awards and the procession of the patron's image, which last night concluded the religious activities held throughout September.
The mayor, Ana Isabel Jiménez, has praised the high participation of the residents in the commemorative events. In her statements, she emphasized the role of these celebrations in local life.
“These celebrations highlight the strength of local traditions and the values of coexistence and social cohesion demonstrated by the residents of Alcalá.”
Jiménez, who participated in the procession alongside the elder brother of the San Mateo Brotherhood, Paco Núñez, highlighted the work of the religious corporation in maintaining traditions. The day also included the proclamation and the traditional pilgrimage, celebrated last week.
The City Council coordinates each year, through the Plan Glorias and together with the Council of Brotherhoods and the Brotherhood itself, all aspects related to traffic, safety, and street cleaning of the processions.
The devotion to San Mateo in Alcalá de Guadaíra dates back to the reconquest of the city by King San Fernando in 1246, a date that coincides with the apostle's feast day. The first Brotherhood dates back to that time, linked to the Santuario del Águila and with a strong hospitable character. After it was extinguished at the end of the 18th century due to the depopulation of the Santa María neighbourhood, the devotion was maintained through the Brotherhood of the Patron, Santa María del Águila. It was not until the 20th century that the Brotherhood of San Mateo revived, which celebrated its 30th anniversary in 2025.
The Ciudad de Alcalá awards gala took place on Sunday at the Auditorio Riberas del Guadaíra. These awards recognise individuals and local entities for their commitment and contribution to the cultural, social, artistic, and professional development of the city. The recipients, chosen by plenary consensus, were teacher María Quirós; dancer Araceli de Alcalá; educator Francisca Olías; teacher Joaquín Ordóñez; stage director Magdalena Alfaro; scientist Juan Carlos Sánchez; Estudio de Danza Grand Allegro; ceramist and painter Jesús Alcarazo; local police officer and president of the Red Cross Assembly in Alcalá, Carlos Gallego; and doctor Ricardo Piña, posthumously.
With last night's procession, Alcalá de Guadaíra concludes a September marked by religious activities and events in honour of its patron. The celebrations have seen a wide public response at all events.
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