Queen Sofia visited New York to attend the inauguration of a commemorative plaque dedicated to Diego de Gardochi, Spain’s first ambassador to the United States. The Bilbao diplomat is considered an important figure in Spain’s support for American independence.
In 1785, de Gardequi first stone St. Peter’s Church, New York’s first Catholic parish. The event, promoted by Iberdrola in collaboration with the Queen Sofia Spanish Institute (QSSI), coincides with the 240th anniversary of this milestone. birth and death.
“He is a symbol of the enduring friendship between Spain and the United States,” Jose Antonio Miranda, CEO of Avangrid (Iberdrola’s U.S. subsidiary), defined Diego de Gardoqui, calling out Spanish diplomats as dishonest. “Inspiration” We thank him and his company for their “vision, courage and collaborative spirit.”
The event is part of Iberdrola’s “Reveal the Memory” initiative in the country and QSSI’s America&Spain250, which commemorates the participation and contribution of Spain and Hispanics to American independence on the occasion of the 250th anniversary of American independence, which will be celebrated in 2026.
“We also want to remember all those who donated to the construction of the church so long ago, including New Yorkers and Hispanics at the time, including Bishop Lizana and Carlos III of Mexico,” said QSSI President Begoña Santos.
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