Spain has declared three days of official national mourning following the devastating train crash in Adamuz (Cordoba), which has left 40 dead and many more injured.
The decision was announced on Monday by Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez after he visited the crash site and received briefings on the emergency response and ongoing rescue, recovery and investigation work.
What does three days of national mourning involve?
During the official mourning period:
- Spanish flags will fly at half-mast on all public buildings across the country
- This includes Spanish embassies, consulates and official missions abroad, as well as Navy vessels
- The period of mourning runs from midnight on Monday until midnight on Thursday
While Spain does not impose mandatory cancellations nationwide, public institutions typically suspend non-essential ceremonial acts, and the declaration serves as a formal mark of respect and collective remembrance.
‘A day of pain for all of Spain’
Speaking after touring the disaster zone, Sanchez described the crash as a tragedy felt by the whole country, saying the government’s thoughts were first and foremost with the victims and their families.
He conveyed condolences on behalf of Spanish society and wished a swift recovery to those injured.
The prime minister stressed that moments like this demand unity in grief and unity in response, and said the state had acted in a coordinated and loyal manner since the first moments after the crash.
He publicly thanked healthcare workers, emergency services, police and civil protection teams at all levels – from local councils to the central government – highlighting not only their professionalism but also their humanity during what he described as long and emotionally exhausting hours.
‘We will get to the truth’
Sanchez acknowledged the questions many Spaniards are asking about how such a tragedy could occur.
He said that technical experts and investigators will determine what happened, and gave a firm commitment that the findings will be made public with full transparency once conclusions are reached.
Until then, he urged patience and responsibility, assuring victims and families that the state will continue to provide support, assistance and protection for as long as needed, in coordination with regional and local authorities.
Call for reliable information
The prime minister also issued a clear warning about misinformation and rumours, urging the public to rely only on official channels and verified media outlets for updates.
He said false information can deepen distress and uncertainty, particularly for families still awaiting news of loved ones, and asked citizens to help prevent the spread of speculation.
Institutional cooperation praised
Sanchez praised cooperation with the Junta de Andalucia, the provincial authority and the local council, as well as residents of surrounding Alto Guadalquivir towns, who he said showed solidarity and support from the first moments after the crash.
The government says updates will continue to be provided as investigations progress and recovery efforts continue.
