Mayor Pablo Ruz has announced that historian Joan Castaño will be named Elche's 'Hijo Predilecto'. This recognition celebrates the work carried out by the until-now archivist of the Misteri d’Elx Patronage, considering him “one of the great restorers of the Festa”, on par with Pedro Ibarra, who was also named a Favorite Son in his day.
Ruz made this announcement during the public session of the Misteri d’Elx Patronage, traditionally held every August 13th in the Elche City Hall's plenary hall. The mayor highlighted the importance of the citizens of Elche who have enriched the Festa, making its current celebration possible.
He recalled that 100 years ago, Don Pedro Ibarra received the same title for his dedication to restoring and disseminating Elche's history. The mayor emphasized that Joan Castaño is today a key figure for understanding the Festa, just as Ibarra was, and that this recognition honors his contribution.
In this regard, Ruz stated that “one of Joan's objectives is to restore our Festa, the soul of Elche, the love that this blessed town feels for the Assumption of Mary”.
