Professor Enrique Gaztanaga has been given the Freedom of The City of London in a ceremony which dates back to Medieval England.
A University of Portsmouth Professor is one of the leading figures from the worlds of science, medicine, business, academia, education, and arts, who has been awarded the Freedom of the City of London.
Professor Enrique Gaztanaga was recognised for his outstanding achievements in the field of space, data and academia.
In particular his contribution to the working group for ‘Measuring the Monument’, which aims to recreate the measurements made in the 1670s to prove that the Earth moves around the Sun, using the London Monument, which still stands in the centre of London and was originally built as a Zenith Telescope.
Professor Gaztanaga, from the University’s Institute of Cosmology and Gravitation, said: “It is a profound privilege to uphold this historic tradition and be honoured as a Citizen of London. In a world where we often take our freedoms for granted, it is essential to reflect on the liberties we possess and the scientific endeavours that continue to challenge and expand our understanding of the universe. This recognition not only celebrates our shared heritage but also underscores the importance of scientific inquiry and academic excellence.”
The 40 recipients who were honoured at the Lord Mayor’s official residence
The Freedom of the City dates back to 1275 and originally meant that a Freeman was not bound to a feudal lord and could own their land and property. In Medieval times, Freedom was necessary for anyone wanting to trade in the City and provided immunity from tolls at markets and freedom from impressment into the armed forces.
Although most of the practical privileges of having Freedom have now disappeared, the award is still seen as a huge honour and Professor Gaztanaga does now have the right to drive sheep over London Bridge, toll free.
Professor Gaztanaga was awarded earlier this month at a group ceremony, hosted by Lord Mayor Professor Michael Mainelli at the Lord Mayor’s official residence, The Mansion House.
Speaking after the ceremony, Lord Mayor Professor Michael Mainelli, said: "These people are remarkable individuals who exemplify the City of London’s spirit of innovation and dedication, and have enriched the Square Mile’s diverse tapestry with their impressive achievements and contributions to public life.
It is a profound privilege to uphold this historic tradition and be honoured as a Citizen of London. In a world where we often take our freedoms for granted, it is essential to reflect on the liberties we possess and the scientific endeavours that continue to challenge and expand our understanding of the universe.
“Today's ceremony embodies the essence of connectivity that underscores my mayoral theme, ‘Connect to Prosper’, celebrating our many Knowledge Miles and showcasing the Square Mile's ability to bring people together, across different areas of expertise, to find solutions to our planet's biggest challenges."
High-profile recipients of the award include theoretical physicist Professor Stephen Hawking, Archbishop Desmond Tutu, former prime minister Winston Churchill and Professor Dame Sarah Gilbert, who initiated and led the development of the Oxford-AstraZeneca COVID vaccine.
Professor Gaztanaga is also a Professor at the Institute of Space Sciences (CSIC/IEEC) in Barcelona and publishes a science blog called Dark Cosmos.