The signing of the transfer agreement between the mayor, Jorge Monferrer, and Vicenta María Enrique-Tarancón Gallego, representing the cardinal's family, will allow the council to manage, safeguard, and protect a collection of historically and sentimentally valuable pieces. These will form the core of the museum space planned for the Racó de l’Abadia.
The handover is gratuitous and will have an initial term of fifteen years, renewable. This action aligns with Tarancón's expressed wish that his legacy remain connected to the Church of El Salvador, where he was baptized and ordained bishop.
“"This legacy is the testimony of a key figure in Spanish history who always carried Burriana in his heart."
The transfer represents a significant step towards completing a project that has been pending for over two decades. The building designated for the museum was completed in 2001 but never opened its doors, making the launch of this space a recurring demand in the city over the years.
Among the items to be held in municipal custody are the crozier, the episcopal ivory ring enameled with the image of the Mare de Déu de la Misericòrdia, his first pectoral from 1946, and the homily delivered in San Jerónimo el Real during the enthronement of King Juan Carlos I. The legacy also includes everyday objects and international recognitions, such as the rosary gifted by John Paul II, his typewriter, and even his ID card.
“"We have unpublished documents and objects that narrate the Spanish transition from a unique perspective. Our goal is for the Cardinal Tarancón Museum to be a first-rate cultural reference that consolidates Burriana as a true City of Museums."
