Día de la Constitución
Constitution Day marks the anniversary of a referendum
held in Spain on December 6, 1978.
In this
referendum, the people of Spain approved the new constitution. This was an
important step in Spain's transition to becoming a constitutional monarchy and
democracy.
A monument in Madrid to commemorate the Spanish Constitution of 1978.
On the days before Constitution Day, children and
young people have extra lessons on the history, politics and constitution of
Spain.
Each year, a selection of high school students
are invited to read the Constitution in the Lower House of the parliamentary
buildings in Madrid a few days before December 6.
The
parliamentary buildings are open to the general public for one or two days.
A
cocktail party is held in the parliamentary buildings on December 6.
Constitution Day is a quiet day off work for most people. They spend time at
home relaxing with family members or close friends.
Symbols
Physical representations of the Spanish Constitution
are important symbols of Constitution Day.
An original copy of the Constitution,
signed by King Juan Carlos I, is in the building of the Spanish Congress of
Deputies on the Carrera de San Jerónimo in Madrid.
The national flag is widely displayed on
private homes, public buildings and even public transport vehicles on
Constitution Day. It may be displayed alone or together with the European and
regional flags.
Background
Francisco Franco was head of state in Spain from
April 1, 1939, until November 20, 1975. Spain needed a new constitution and
political system after his death. General elections were held on June 15, 1977.
The newly formed parliament started drew up a new constitution. The
Spanish Constitution of 1978 was approved by 88 percent of the people of Spain
in a referendum on December 6, 1978.
