On the eve of the new year, Granada is mourning the sudden death of Juan Ramón Ferreira Siles, the city’s councillor for tourism and culture, who passed away from a heart attack on 31 December 2025.
Ferreira, aged 52, was a key figure in local politics, serving as the fourth deputy mayor and driving Granada’s ambitious bid to become the European Capital of Culture in 2031. His unexpected passing has prompted the city council to declare a day of official mourning, with flags flying at half-mast across municipal buildings.
Tributes have poured in from political leaders, including Andalusia’s regional president Juan Manuel Moreno, who described Ferreira as an honourable politician and good companion taken too soon.
The loss is a significant blow to Granada’s tourism sector, where Ferreira championed initiatives blending cultural heritage with visitor experiences, such as promoting the Alhambra and local festivals. As the city enters 2026, his legacy in fostering sustainable tourism and cultural vibrancy will be remembered and built upon.
