Dona Remedios Trinidad Romualdez Medical Foundation

A.Y. 2019-2020

Life and Works of Rizal

RIZAL’S LIFE IN MADRID

(Written Summary Report)

SUBMITTED BY:

Rodalyn Janola

BMLS 2-D

SUBMITTED TO:

Ms. Angelique Salazar

From Manila Moves to Madrid

In one of Rizal’s letter that was dated on May 26, 1882, his brother Paciano advised him
to finish his medical course in Madrid. Manifestly, heeding his older brother’s advice, Rizal left
Barcelona in the fall of the year 1882 and established himself in Madrid, the capital of Spain.

Life in Madrid

On November 3, 1882, Rizal enrolled in the Universidad Central de Madrid (Central

University of Madrid) in two courses – Medicine and Philosophy & Letters. Aside from his heavy
studies in the university, he studied painting and sculpture in the Academy of Fine Arts of San
Fernando, he also took lessons in French, German, and English under private instructors, he also
tirelessly practiced fencing and shooting in the Hall of Arms of Sanz y Carbonell. Because of his
thirst for knowledge of music, he visited art galleries and museums and read books on all subjects
under the sun, including military engineering, in order to broaden his cultural background.

Rizal had led a Spartan life in Madrid, since he knew that he came to Spain to study and
prepare himself for service to his fatherland. That is why he lived frugally and he rigidly budgeted
his time and money by spending it on food, clothing, lodging, and books – never wasting a peseta
for gambling, wine, and women. He spent his leisure time reading and writing at his boarding
house, attending the reunions of Filipino students at the house of Paterno brothers (Antonio,
Maximo, and Pedro), and practicing fencing and shooting at the gymnasium.

Studies Completed in Spain

In 1883, Rizal received a diploma given by an association of medical practitioners in

Madrid for his knowledge in medical science. He completed his medical course in Spain on June
21, 1884, but due to not presenting the thesis required and corresponding fees, he was not awarded
his Doctor’s diploma. Yet, he also finished his studies in Philosophy & Letters and was awarded
the degree of Licentiate in Philosophy & Letters on June 19, 1885 with rating of Excellent.