Eduardo Mendoza has made a “decisive contribution” to Spanish-language literature over the past fifty years, according to the jury of the Princess of Asturias Award Foundation. The jury noted his ability to innovate while reaching a wide audience.
The jury highlighted Mendoza’s clear prose, which skillfully blends popular language with unexpected learned expressions. His works are marked by humor and a joyful, humanistic outlook on life. The panel noted that Mendoza is a source of happiness for readers of all generations and acknowledged his international recognition.
Born in Barcelona on January 11, 1943, Mendoza published his first novel, “La verdad sobre el caso Savolta,” in 1975.
This novel is considered by critics to be the first of Spain’s transition period from dictatorship to democracy, according to the Princess of Asturias Foundation. The book already included elements showcasing Mendoza’s ability to use different narratives and styles.
Set mainly in Barcelona, Mendoza’s works include “La ciudad de los prodigios” (1986), “El asombroso viaje de Pomponio Flato” (2008), and “Riña de gatos” (2010), all published in Portugal in Portuguese by Porto Editora.
Four of his novels, including “La verdad sobre el caso Savolta,” have been adapted into films.
Aside from his novels, Mendoza has written plays and worked as a translator at the United Nations and other international organizations.
The Princess of Asturias Award, presented to Eduardo Mendoza today, adds to other accolades the writer has received, including the Cervantes Prize in 2016 and the Planeta Prize in 2010 for “Riña de gatos.”
The Princess of Asturias Awards, now in their 45th edition, annually honor scientific, technical, cultural, social, and humanitarian work conducted by individuals or institutions globally.
The Princess of Asturias Award for Literature 2025 is the second award announced this year by the foundation. Last week, the Princess of Asturias Award for Communication and Humanities 2025 was given to the German philosopher and essayist of South Korean origin, Byung-Chul Han.
In the coming weeks, awards in the areas of Arts, Sports, Social Sciences, International Cooperation, Scientific and Technical Research, and Concord will be announced.
Each award carries a monetary prize of 50,000 euros, and the award ceremony will take place in October.
The Princess of Asturias Award for Literature has been previously awarded in 2024 to Romanian writer Ana Blandiana, and in earlier editions to authors such as Haruki Murakami (2023), Siri Hustvedt (2019), Leonard Cohen (2011), Amin Maalouf (2010), Margaret Atwood (2008), Nelida Piñon (2005), Arthur Miller (2002), Doris Lessing (2001), Gunter Grass (1999), Mario Vargas Llosa (1986), and Juan Rulfo (1983), among others.
