Announcement made in resort’s 100th year
By Juan Pablo Sebastián
In conjunction with its 100th year, the Rosarito Beach Hotel announced its discovery of a work by the Mexican painter Alfredo Ramos Martínez, one of the most important artists of the 20th century, considered by many the father of Mexican modern art.
The painting is an image that reflects Mexico in the 1930s, with different nuances and concepts that allude to the vision of the Mexican people, their dignity, work and efforts.
The painting has been at the hotel for many years but its significance was discovered on Oct. 15, 2022, by Graciela and Rafael González, during a visit the historians made to the resort.
The momentous discovery was revealed to the public on Feb. 8, the same day that the hotel was announced as a historical and cultural site of Baja California by the state government.
The Torres family, resort owners, released the news at an event with media, representatives of organized groups, and authorities led by the Secretary of Tourism of Baja California, Miguel Aguiñiga Rodríguez, and the Secretary of Culture of Baja California, Alma Delia Abrego Cevallos.
After an investigation involving renowned art restorers Regina Trespalacios and Hartwig Lugo, researchers attributed the work to the Mexican painter Alfredo Ramos Martínez.
Some questions remain regarding the dates and place of its creation.
The work titled «The Market» and is described as representing “complex community life along the canals of Xochimilco. The characters convey coexistence, cordiality, and commitment to live a dignified life. It reflects nostalgic nationalism.»
Secretary of Tourism Miguel Aguiñiga Rodríguez recognized the contribution of the Rosarito Beach Hotel to the history and culture of Baja California, as well as consolidating itself as a major driver of the region’s tourism development.
The Secretary of Culture of Baja California said the hotel is considered an icon of Baja California, for its history, culture, and its recognition as a historical and cultural site of Baja California.
«Undoubtedly (it) fills all Baja Californians with pride,” she said. “Heritage is identifying what is our own, identifying ourselves with everything that unites us, and above all promoting the legacy that we leave to our children and new generations.”
The President of the hotel’s board of directors, Hugo Antonio Torres, recalled the beginnings of the hotel with Don Manuel Barbachano at the helm. Mr. Barbachano was a great promoter of community development, entrepreneur, and benefactor.
«Among the many things he is known for, there are things that are still not recognized, but the time has come to recognize them,” Mr. Torres said of his ancestor.