The Manuel Azaña Days are one of Montauban’s most significant cultural and memorial events. This annual event, organised by the association Présence de Manuel Azaña, commemorates the last President of the Spanish Republic, who died in exile in our town on 3 November 1940. Manuel Azaña (1880-1940), a leading intellectual and visionary statesman, left his mark on the history of democratic Spain. Head of government and then President of the Republic during the Second Spanish Republic, he embodied republican legitimacy until his death in the face of Franco’s regime. It was in Montauban that he spent his last months in exile, leaving an indelible mark on the history of our city.
Created in 2006, the Manuel Azaña Days have over the years become a not-to-be-missed event for historians, researchers, students and members of the general public with a passion for the history of contemporary Spain and issues of remembrance. In 2024, the 19th edition of these days was held, testifying to the longevity and influence of this event. These days are distinguished by their multidisciplinary approach, combining scientific rigour with a cultural dimension. They welcome participants from France, Spain and other European countries, creating a real bridge of memory between nations.
The Manuel Azaña Conferences traditionally offer a diversified programme over several days, built around different components:
- The international symposium is the scientific heart of the event. Each year, it addresses a particular aspect of Spanish history in relation to the figure of Manuel Azaña. The themes explored have covered subjects as varied as the Spanish Republic, the Church and Freemasonry, the forced labour of Spanish Republicans during the Second World War, and the destinies of great Republican figures in exile.
- Cultural events enrich the academic dimension with artistic approaches: bilingual poetry concerts, exhibitions, theatrical performances and literary tributes complete the programme. These events help to reach a wider audience and pass on the cultural heritage of Republican Spain.
- The commemorative ceremony at Montauban cemetery represents the most solemn moment of the days. It honours the memory of Manuel Azaña and reminds us of the importance of the duty to remember in the face of totalitarianism.
Beyond their commemorative dimension, the Manuel Azaña Days are a veritable laboratory of ideas and a forum for intercultural dialogue. Round tables, conferences and debates encourage exchanges between generations and nationalities, leading to a better understanding of historical and contemporary issues. The event also contributes to the intellectual influence of Montauban and the Tarn-et-Garonne department, positioning our region as a place of reference for Hispano-French studies and research into Republican exile.
The Journées Manuel Azaña are supported by numerous local, national and international institutions. They are recognised by the academic world and are the subject of scientific publications that disseminate the work presented at the conferences. The ‘Presence of Manuel Azaña’ association, set up in 2006, works throughout the year to maintain the place of memory that is Manuel Azaña’s tomb and to prepare these exceptional days. It is supported by a renowned scientific committee made up of historians and specialists in contemporary Spain.
