On December 6, Spain marks an important day in its modern history: Constitution Day, or Día de la Constitución. This date commemorates the approval of the Spanish Constitution on December 6, 1978. The day represents the beginning of democratic Spain, coming after decades of dictatorship under Francisco Franco.
After the death of Franco in 1975, Spain began a critical transformation known as the Transición (the Transition). This period saw the country shift from authoritarian rule to democracy. In 1976-1977, King Juan Carlos I, who had been named Franco’s successor, chose to steer Spain towards democracy. This led to the first democratic elections in 1977, paving the way for the creation of a new constitution.
The road to a democratic Spain
The Spanish Constitution of 1978, also called the Magna Carta, laid down the rights and obligations of all Spanish citizens and established the framework for the democratic state. On December 6, 1978, the constitution was approved by referendum, with a large majority voting in favour. This event is considered one of the key milestones of the Spanish Transition, enshrining the return of civil liberties and democratic governance.
Constituent assembly and ratification
The Constitution was drafted by the Constituent Assembly, elected in 1977. This assembly represented all political parties active in Spain at the time, including those that had been repressed under Franco’s regime. The Carta Magna was initially approved by Congress and the Senate, before being put to a public referendum.
On December 6, 1978, Spaniards voted in favour of the constitutional text, with overwhelming support. Later that month, on December 27, King Juan Carlos I ratified the constitution, making it law. This marked a definitive shift in Spain’s history—from dictatorship to democracy—giving citizens full rights and freedoms.
Establishment of Constitution Day
Although December 6, 1978, was recognised as a crucial date for the country, it was not until 1983 that Constitution Day was officially established as a public holiday. The government of Felipe González, through Royal Decree 2964/1983, instituted the day as a public holiday, allowing Spaniards to formally celebrate the anniversary of their democratic constitution. The first official celebration took place in 1983.
How Spain has changed since 1978
The adoption of the constitution marked the beginning of a profound transformation in Spain. From an isolated dictatorship, Spain emerged as a democratic state, joining the European Community (now the European Union) in 1986. The Constitution guaranteed freedoms that had long been suppressed, such as freedom of speech, association, and assembly. It also established a decentralised political structure, creating autonomous communities like Catalonia, the Basque Country, and Andalucia, which were given their own governments and parliaments.
Since 1978, Spain has become a vibrant democracy with a diverse and thriving society. Economic reforms and integration into the European Union have turned Spain into one of Europe’s largest economies. Socially, the country has seen significant progress in areas such as gender equality, LGBTQ+ rights, and healthcare. The Constitution laid the foundation for this modernisation, ensuring political stability and the protection of civil liberties.
Events on Constitution Day
Constitution Day is a public holiday in Spain, but unlike other national celebrations, it does not feature extensive family traditions. Instead, it is marked by official ceremonies and commemorative events. In Madrid, the government and armed forces hold several formal activities, including the traditional flag-raising ceremony in Plaza de Colón. These events honour the Constitution and the democratic values it represents.
While it may not have the same festive feel as other holidays, Constitution Day serves as a reminder of the freedoms and rights that Spaniards fought to secure. It is a day to reflect on how far the country has come since the end of the dictatorship and to celebrate the democratic principles that continue to shape modern Spain.