San Javier's Museum where appearances can be deceiving

Strolling along the Paseo Colon in Santiago de la Ribera you would almost pass it unnoticed. For several months now, five models of old aircraft models have been on display on the boulevard. A nice embellishment of the street scene, like other statues in so many places brighten up a walking area somewhat. But appearances can be deceiving. Together, the models form a unique open-air museum, behind which there is much more than a fleeting glance and an admiring 'gosh how nice'.

Anyone who takes a closer look at the five planes can take a deeper dive into the rich aviation history of Santiago de la Ribera and San Javier thanks to modern technology. With the help of a so-called QR code that can be easily activated, you can access a large amount of information. The five models on display are the most emblematic and important aircraft in the history of San Javier's 100-year aviation involvement. The code gives access to extensive information about the aircraft, their history, important figures and a range of other interesting details.

This interactive exhibition has been conceived and developed in the context of the 'City of the Sky'. In 2020, San Javier and Santiago de la Ribera celebrated the 100th anniversary of their joint history with the Spanish aviation industry. Initially, in 1920, Santiago was considered the Spanish choice for the main base for maritime aviation. In 1943 it was decided in Madrid to bring all military aviation training together under one roof. San Javier was where that military training facility was located.

Those decisions have had major consequences for the municipality of San Javier. Economic progress exploded in the small fishing village. The healthy cooperation between local politicians and aviation took on a new dimension with the introduction of 'air shows' and the accompanying open days during which visitors could admire many aircraft models. The tentative peak came in 2006 when a show full of antics featuring over 100 airplanes was watched from the beach by about half a million people. That event was awarded the title of the best European air show of the year.

Thanks to the collaboration between engineers, historians and companies specializing in the aviation industry, the three-dimensional open air museum is a preliminary final step in the success story of San Javier and Spanish aviation.