Exhibition “Spanish Presence in the Sahara”

50 Years of Reflection: Spain’s Departure from the Western Sahara

A Historical Context

As we approach the 50th anniversary of Spain’s departure from the Western Sahara, the region’s complex history continues to resonate with many. The consequences of that exit are far-reaching, affecting not just the Sahara but also the Spanish territories closest to it, particularly Fuerteventura. This pivotal moment in history marked the end of an era and the beginning of profound and enduring changes for the local population.

The Exhibition “Spanish Presence in the Sahara”

To commemorate this significant anniversary, an exhibition titled “Presencia Española en el Sáhara” is traveling through prominent locales, showcasing the lasting impact of Spain’s presence in the region. After successful displays in Tenerife and Las Palmas, the exhibition is set to land in Fuerteventura. Its carefully curated content serves as an important reminder of the historical ties and cultural influences that link these geographical areas.

A Journey Through Time

The exhibition is a visual and narrative journey through ten distinct themes, each offering a chronological exploration of events related to the Sahara:

1. The Sahara in Antiquity: Exploring the region’s early history and its significance.
2. Spanish Arrival and Urban Development: Detailing how Spanish colonization transformed local landscapes and societies.
3. Sahara as a Spanish Province: Discussing the implications of imperial governance.
4. The United Nations Enters the Scene: Examining international interventions and their motivations.
5. Families in Protest: Highlighting the emotional weight of individuals affected by military actions.
6. Terrorist Incidents and Their Aftermath: Chronicle of tragedies involving local law enforcement.
7. The Return of Fallen Soldiers: A look into the human cost of conflict.
8. The Green March: An exploration of the peaceful protests that led to Spain’s exit.
9. The Exodus of Civilians: Reflecting on the personal stories of those uprooted by conflict.
10. The Final Withdrawal: Capturing the last moments of Spanish military presence in the Sahara.

This thematic timeline is heavily supported by visual evidence from the field, including impactful photographs captured by José Luis de Pablos, a journalist and photo reporter from Televisión Española, who chronicled these turbulent times.

Community Engagement

The exhibition is not realized in isolation; it is made possible thanks to collaborations with organizations like the Regimiento de Infantería Soria 9 and the municipal government of Puerto del Rosario. These partnerships highlight the community’s commitment to remembering and educating future generations about their shared history.

Practical Details for Visitors

For those wishing to engage with this compelling historical narrative, the exhibition will be held in the Casa de la Cultura in Puerto del Rosario, located at C/ Ramiro de Maeztu, 2. Visitors will have access to the exhibit from September 9 to September 23, 2025, with hours of operation from Monday to Friday, 08:00 to 14:00 and 17:00 to 20:00. Best of all, entrance to the exhibit is free, encouraging as many community members and tourists to attend as possible.

Capturing the Significance

The exhibition not only serves as a means of reflection but also fosters a greater understanding of our shared history. It is an opportunity to honor the past while promoting a dialogue about the future. Fuerteventura’s cultural ties to the Sahara make it a poignant backdrop for this important commemoration.

For more information on the exhibition and to view the promotional materials, you can find the exhibition poster here.