Since its establishment in 1998, the Government of Cantabria’s Office in Brussels, under the leadership of Inma Valencia, has transcended its role as a mere institutional representative to the European Union. It has evolved into a dynamic platform that unites universities, businesses, civil society, and, crucially, the cultural sector of Cantabria. This office has demonstrated the pivotal role that promoting intangible heritage plays in enhancing a region’s external presence.
Amplifying Cultural Visibility in Europe’s Heart
Brussels, often recognized as Europe’s political capital and a vibrant cultural nexus, offers unique opportunities for regions to showcase their identities beyond borders. The Cantabria Office has been proactive in launching cultural initiatives that carry significant symbolic weight, thus reinforcing the region’s visibility at the epicenter of Europe.
A recent highlight was the centenary performance by the Coral Voces Cántabras, which journeyed to Brussels to present a poignant double concert. The Cantabrian choir commenced its celebration with a stirring selection of sacred music at the stunning Cathedral of Saint Michael and Saint Gudula, followed by a lively display of traditional Cantabrian music at the esteemed Musical Instruments Museum (MIM).
During this momentous occasion, a rabel—a traditional string instrument—was specially crafted and donated to the MIM, representing the region’s rich musical heritage. This instrument has now become part of the museum’s extensive collection, which includes over 8,000 artifacts from various cultures, highlighting Cantabria’s unique contributions.
“This recital, held in celebration of the choir’s centenary, aims to showcase Cantabria’s musical traditions as part of Europe’s broader musical heritage,” remarked Luis Ángel Agüeros, the Minister of Economy, Finance, Regional Funding and European Funds of the Government of Cantabria.
Strengthening Regional Identity through Music and Culture
Agüeros underscored the importance of the event within the context of promoting Cantabria’s cultural heritage on a European stage, supported through his ministry’s Directorate-General for European Funds.
The Voces Cántabras Choir, founded in 1924 by the renowned musicologist and folklorist Matilde de la Torre Gutiérrez, has a rich history, having performed its inaugural concert in Cabezón de la Sal the same year. Over the past century, the choir has cultivated a diverse repertoire that spans sacred music, zarzuela, opera, spirituals, habaneras, and traditional Cantabrian songs. Its contributions have been recognized with numerous awards, including the Gold Medal for Cultural Merit from the Cabezón de la Sal City Council, and it has graced prestigious venues such as London’s Royal Albert Hall.
The Cantabria Office in Brussels has consistently facilitated numerous cultural events that showcase the region’s artistic richness and longstanding traditions. Notably, in 2004, a concert of traditional Cantabrian music was organized at the MIM, where a handcrafted rabel campurriano was also donated.
In 2006, during the EU’s Regional Open Days, the Peña Labra Choir performed at the office, presenting a program that seamlessly blended classical influences with local folklore. Subsequent initiatives in 2010, such as the exhibition “Visions of the End of Times: Beatus of Liébana and the Beatus Manuscripts” at the Instituto Cervantes, complemented by a concert of ancient music, further solidified Cantabria’s cultural identity in Brussels.
Another significant achievement was Cantabria’s vibrant participation in the 2019 Folklorissimo Festival at the Grand Place in Brussels, where Spain was the guest of honor. Cantabria showcased over 100 artists and groups, representing its cultural, musical, gastronomic, and tourist identity through events such as traditional music performances and local product tastings.
Inma Valencia encapsulates the mission of the Cantabria Office: “Cantabria’s culture has found in Brussels a powerful stage from which to be heard. It’s not just about being present in the political or economic forums of the EU, but also about sharing our traditions, our music, and our roots with international audiences.”
Ultimately, Cantabria’s proactive approach in Brussels illustrates how cultural initiatives can serve as strategic instruments for regional diplomacy, ensuring the region’s influential presence in Europe’s cultural tapestry continues to flourish.