Spanish flamenco dancer and choreographer Joaquín Cortés was awarded the distinction of Officer of the Order of the Star of Italy (*Ufficiale dell’Ordine della Stella d’Italia*) at the Italian Embassy in Madrid on Thursday, September 24.
The ceremony, hosted by Italian Ambassador Giuseppe Buccino Grimaldi, recognized the artist’s deep bond with Italy. Throughout his career, Cortés has performed in major Italian theaters and collaborated with prominent figures in Italian television—such as Raffaella Carrà—serving as a cultural bridge to spread and solidify appreciation for flamenco in Italy.
Joaquín Cortés is a highly acclaimed Spanish flamenco dancer, choreographer, and producer. He has been formally recognized as one of the ten greatest dancers of the 20th century. His cultural impact is so significant that UNESCO designated his artistic legacy as Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity in 2009. He was also named a UNESCO Artist for Peace in 1999 in recognition of his tireless work preserving Gypsy folklore and his efforts on behalf of the underprivileged. He is the creator of iconic shows such as *Pasión Gitana* and *Cibayí*, with which he performed on prestigious stages including the White House, the Oscars, and the Grammys.
Prominent figures from the worlds of public institutions and culture attended the solemn ceremony, including the President of the Community of Madrid, Isabel Díaz Ayuso; José Antonio Ruiz-Berdejo, Count of Sigurtá; Iván Espinosa de los Monteros and Rocío Monasterio; Daniel San Martín Vizcasillas; Mónica Cruz; Telma Ortiz; Michi Primo de Rivera; Juan Peña and his wife Sonia González; Italian opera singer María Elena Infantino—who dedicated a song to the flamenco dancer—Coquí Font and Yolanda Font; and Italian designer Elena Pelosi, among other guests who joined the artist on such a significant day.
The distinction received in Madrid specifically recognizes the artist’s international career and his bond with Italy, where he has performed in major theaters and collaborated with leading figures in the entertainment world. The Italian Embassy has highlighted his talent and charisma, as well as his contribution to bringing Italian audiences closer to the flamenco tradition.
The Order of the Star of Italy—successor to the Order of the Star of Italian Solidarity established in 1947—is the honor the Republic bestows upon Italian and foreign citizens who have excelled in promoting friendly relations and collaboration with Italy. It joins other accolades Italy has awarded the artist, including the special prize from the Italian Red Cross marking its 160th anniversary (Rome, 2024).
The Order, conferred by the President of the Italian Republic upon the recommendation of the Minister of Foreign Affairs, recognizes those who have fostered friendly relations and collaboration between Italy and other countries. In Cortés’s case, the relationship predates the resounding success of the dancer—known for his bare, bronzed torso and wind-swept hair—who revolutionized flamenco and, at just 19, had already choreographed a version of “Carmen” for the Arena di Verona. The artist has performed in major theaters and collaborated with prominent figures in the entertainment industry. The Italian Embassy has highlighted his talent and charisma, as well as his contribution to bringing the Italian public closer to the flamenco tradition. The dancer also spoke about his role as a teacher, acknowledging that he was particularly demanding with his troupe of dancers, including Mónica Cruz.
