“Burgos/1827, Madrid/1891” reads the granite pedestal. Today, we gather before the statue of Manuel Alonso Martínez. He stands here a bronze figure forever caught in contemplation. This is at the Plaza de Alonso Martínez. Once, this very spot held a statue of Quevedo.
Manuel Alonso Martínez was a prominent jurist and politician. He was born in Burgos in 1827 and died in Madrid in 1891. His life spanned a critical period in Spanish history. He entered public service in 1854. Martínez became a member of the Cortes.
His political career was nothing short of remarkable. He served as Minister of Development. Also, he was Minister of Finance and of Grace and Justice. He even served as governor of Madrid. In addition, he was the 139th president of the Congress of Deputies.
Martínez played a vital role in shaping Spanish civil law. He was instrumental in pursuing its codification. The statue before us depicts him reading a book. It symbolizes his dedication to legal matters. He wears a toga and bands. These are marks of his prestigious positions.
Look closely at the pedestal. You will notice the bronze letters. They mark his birth and death years. The pedestal also features the shield of Madrid. The inscription reads “Madrid to the most excellent Sr. D. Manuel Alonso Martínez. Statesman, Jurisconsult and Codifier”.
The statue is not just a monument. It’s a tribute to a man of great influence. The monument’s creation was an initiative. It came from the Association of Professors of Civil Law. The Cultural Foundation of the College of Architects of Madrid sponsored it. José María Álvarez del Manzano inaugurated it on January 13, 1994. He was the Mayor of Madrid at that time.
The sculptor José Luis Parés Parra created the bronze figure. Joaquín Roldán designed the pedestal. Notice Parés’ signature on the plinth. The statue shows him standing. He is holding a book. This highlights his work as a codifier of Spanish law.
Martínez’s contributions extended beyond politics and law. He influenced the Canal de Isabel II project. This brought water from the Lozoya to Madrid. He helped draft the Constitution of 1876. Martínez also established the jury system in Spain. He founded schools of legal medicine. These were in Madrid, Barcelona, and Seville. Furthermore, he brought about civil marriage.
His impact was so profound. His widow received the title of Marchioness of Alonso Martínez. This was a posthumous honor. As you leave this plaza, remember Manuel Alonso Martínez. He was a man who helped shape modern Spain. His legacy lives on in the laws and institutions he helped create.