Juan Antonio Vallejo-Nájera Plaque

Did the walls of this building ever whisper secrets of literary genius and medical prowess? Here at number 5, Calle Santiago Bernabéu, we stand before the Juan Antonio Vallejo-Nájera Plaque. It commemorates a man who delved into the depths of the human psyche and ascended the heights of literary acclaim. The Juan Antonio Vallejo-Nájera Plaque marks the final residence of this remarkable figure, a testament to his life’s work. Juan Antonio Vallejo-Nájera, born in Oviedo in 1926, was a psychiatrist and writer who left an enduring mark on both fields. He followed in his father’s footsteps, also a psychiatrist, and obtained his medical degree with honors from the University of Madrid. His doctoral thesis even won an award from the Royal National Academy of Medicine. Vallejo-Nájera became director of the Leganés National Psychiatric Hospital and later, a professor of psychiatry at the University of Madrid. He wasn’t just a doctor; he was a prolific writer. His works ranged from academic texts like “Introduction to Psychiatry,” which saw 15 editions, to historical novels like “Yo, el Rey,” which won the prestigious Planeta Prize in 1985. Vallejo-Nájera explored the complexities of human psychology in books like “Conocerte a ti mismo” and offered practical advice in “Aprender a hablar en publico hoy,” which remarkably went through 32 editions. He even ventured into the world of art, showcasing his talents as a naive painter. Here, at the Juan Antonio Vallejo-Nájera Plaque, we remember a multifaceted individual. A man who explored the human mind, chronicled history, and embraced artistic expression. He spent his final years within these walls, and his presence is still felt in the world of psychiatry and literature.