From Havana to Galicia: The new life of Samuel and his wife

MADRID, Spain.- The popular Cuban youtuber Frank Camallerys published a new video which tells the story of a Cuban family who emigrated to Spain through a repopulation program in areas with low population density. In this episode, Camallerys follows Samuel and his wife, who settled in Monforte de Lemos, Galicia, a year and four months ago. Taking advantage of the Spanish citizenship By descent, thanks to the law of grandchildren, the couple emigrated to the European country in search of a better quality of life.

Samuel and his wife now live in a 110-square-metre apartment in the centre of the village, purchased through a real estate agency. The cost of living is considerably lower than in large cities such as Madrid or Barcelona.

Samuel highlights the tranquillity and access to basic services as the main advantages of living in Monforte de Lemos. His parents’ network of contacts made his integration easier. He works in a cleaning company and part-time in a nursing home.

Monforte de Lemos

Monforte de Lemos is a town located in the south of the province of Lugo, in the Spanish autonomous community of Galicia. It is the capital of the Tierra de Lemos region and is located in a strategic position, surrounded by mountains and bathed by the Cabe River. Its history dates back to Roman times, with archaeological remains attesting to its ancient importance.

The city stands out for its historical and cultural heritage, with emblematic monuments such as the Monastery of San Vicente del Pino and the College of Nuestra Señora de la Antigua, also known as “El Escorial de Galicia”. Monforte de Lemos is a key point on the Ribeira Sacra Wine Route, famous for its designation of origin wines. Its economy is based on trade, viticulture and tourism, attracting visitors interested in its tradition.

Bars and restaurants become meeting points during the weekends, and in summer, activity in the village increases. In winter, tranquility is the norm. Camallerys’ video provides a detailed insight into the opportunities and challenges facing life in this region of Spain.

Repopulation projects

In Spain, demographic change is a cause for great concern. The population is ageing rapidly and birth rates are discouraging. This situation is aggravated by the emigration of many young Spaniards from inland cities to large cities or abroad, in search of better job opportunities. As a result, “empty Spain” has left rural villages with unoccupied houses and businesses without anyone to attend to them.

To counteract this trend, repopulation programs have been implemented that have benefited Cubans with Spanish nationality. Among these programs, the “Proyecto Arraigo” stands out, which seeks to revitalize rural areas and encourage population growth.

In April This year, a Cuban family began the repopulation plan implemented by Proyecto Arraigo in the province of Burgos, settling in Lerma. This plan, called “Burgos Repuebla Territorio Smart”, was designed by the Provincial Council with the aim of counteracting depopulation.