News

Latest news and updates about living in Spain

culture

Concerns Rise Over the State of Magdalena Palace in Santander

Santander, a charming coastal city in northern Spain, is facing a growing concern over the condition of one of its most iconic landmarks: the Palacio de la Magdalena. This palatial home, which once served as a summer retreat for the Spanish royal family, has been a cornerstone of Santander's historical and cultural identity.

Historical Significance

The Palacio de la Magdalena, situated on the picturesque Magdalena Peninsula, has a rich history dating back to the early 20th century. It was built between 1909 and 1911 by Spanish architects Javier GonzĂĄlez de Riancho and GonzĂĄlez Riancho, and it has hosted numerous royal visits, including those of King Alfonso XIII and Queen Victoria Eugenia. The palace is renowned for its stunning architecture and breathtaking views of the Bay of Biscay.

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history

Controversy Erupts Over Occupation of Ruins in Tao, Canary Islands

In a developing story that has captured the attention of local authorities and residents in the Canary Islands, a person has been occupying the ruins of an ancient site in Tao, sparking a heated debate and calls for action from political leaders.

The Occupation

For several days, an individual has taken up residence in the ruins of Tao, a site of historical significance in the Canary Islands. This occupation has raised concerns among local authorities, preservationists, and the community at large.

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law

Former Catalan Parliament President Laura BorrĂ s Faces Imminent Prison Sentence

In a significant development in Spanish judiciary, Laura BorrĂ s, the former President of the Catalan Parliament, is on the brink of serving a prison sentence following a recent ruling by the Spanish Supreme Court.

Confirmation of Sentence

On February 12, 2025, the Spanish Supreme Court confirmed a sentence of four and a half years in prison, 13 years of disqualification, and a fine of 36,000 euros imposed on BorrĂ s. This decision was made after the court rejected her appeal against the conviction for crimes of prevarication and document falsification. The crimes were committed during her tenure as the director of the Institution of Catalan Letters (ILC) between 2013 and 2018, where she irregularly awarded contracts to a known associate, totaling 335,700 euros[2].

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infrastructure

Major Infrastructure Investment Announced for Saja-Besaya Region in Cantabria

In a significant development for the Saja-Besaya region in Cantabria, Spain, the Ministry of Transport, Mobility and Urban Agenda, through ADIF (Administrador de Infraestructuras Ferroviarias), has announced a substantial investment to improve rail infrastructure and enhance safety.

Investment Details

The project, valued at €338 million, is aimed at eliminating a level crossing in the municipality, a move that is expected to significantly enhance both safety and traffic flow. This investment is part of a broader initiative to modernize and improve the rail network in the region.

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transportation

Multiple Vehicle Accident Causes Significant Disruption on AP-7 in Sant Cugat del Vallès

On Tuesday, February 25, 2025, a major accident involving two lorries and a car brought the AP-7 highway to a standstill in the southbound direction near Sant Cugat del Vallès, a town in the province of Barcelona, Spain.

Accident Details

The incident occurred around 1 PM, resulting in the closure of the AP-7 highway heading towards Tarragona. The accident, which involved a complex collision between the two lorries and a passenger car, led to the immediate shutdown of the southbound lanes to ensure safety and facilitate rescue operations.

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politics

Regional Concerns in Cantabria: PRC Fears Neglect by PP Amid Institutional Apathy

In the autonomous community of Cantabria, a growing sense of unease is palpable as the Regionalist Party of Cantabria (PRC) expresses deep concerns over what it perceives as neglect and institutional apathy by the People's Party (PP). This tension has been escalating, particularly in the wake of recent events that highlight a perceived lack of attention to the region's needs.

Background and Context

The PRC, a regionalist party that has historically been a significant force in Cantabrian politics, has long advocated for the specific interests and needs of the Cantabrian people. However, the party alleges that the PP, which has been a dominant force in Spanish national politics, has consistently overlooked the region's issues.

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