Donegal delegation visits Simancas to deepen twinning ties

A delegation from Donegal County Council visited Simancas in Spain over the weekend of 25 September, strengthening the twinning partnership that was formalised in May 2025.

The visit began at Valladolid University, where the group attended the 3rd International Gathering of Ibero‑Irish Associations. Present were Cllr Gary Doherty (Cathaoirleach), Cllr Terry Crossan (Leas Cathaoirleach), Cllr Martin Harley, Cllr Martin Scanlon, Colin McNulty (Area Manager), Judith McCarthy (Museum Curator) and Irish Ambassador Brian Glynn. Lectures covered topics such as “The Irish in the Spanish Tercios”, “The O’Donnell Clan and the Franciscans” and “Prince Red Hugh O’Donnell”, alongside Irish music and dance performances.

Activities in Simancas

On Saturday the delegation were welcomed at Simancas Castle by the Mayor, councillors and officials, followed by a flag‑raising ceremony with both national anthems. They toured the castle and archives, where the last will of Red Hugh O’Donnell was displayed, and held a twinning meeting with local representatives.

Cllr Doherty thanked the hosts and invited Simancas Council to Donegal in 2027, presenting gifts of Donegal whiskey, a photo book and handmade pens. The Mayor of Simancas accepted the invitation and hosted a reception with gifts for the Donegal delegation.

The visit concluded with a reading of Red Hugh O’Donnell’s will in the Royal Palace courtyard and a reenacted funeral procession through Valladolid, featuring period uniforms, horses, a carriage, dogs and birds of prey, accompanied by Irish and Spanish pipe bands. Speeches were delivered by the Mayor of Valladolid, the Irish Ambassador and Cllr Doherty.

Source: Donegal Daily. Photo: Charlie Jordan / Pexels.