Page "Alcalá de Henares" Paragraph 19

Every year on 23 April, the anniversary of Cervantes ' death, the city of Alcalá hosts the ceremony awarding the Cervantes Prize, the Spanish-speaking world's most prestigious award for lifetime achievement in literature.

The award is presented by the King of Spain at the University of Alcalá's historic " Colegio de San Ildefonso.

" Speeches about the importance of the Spanish language are customarily given by the King, the Minister of Culture and the laureate.

The ceremony attracts a wide range of dignitaries to the city including members of the Royal Family, the Prime Minister, and others.

During this ceremony the citizens of Alcalá can be heard singing the city's song, entitled " Alcalá de Henares.