At the dawn of the 20th century, Vigo emerged as a key industrial and maritime hub in Spain. The city’s economy flourished due to its bustling port, shipbuilding industry, and thriving fisheries. Visionary patrons played a crucial role in shaping this growth, investing in infrastructure and businesses that defined the city’s development.

Among the most influential figures were José García Barbón, a philanthropist who funded cultural and educational institutions, and Bernardo Alfageme, a leader in the canning industry. The contributions of industrialists like Manuel Bárcena Franco helped modernize Vigo’s economy, fostering banking and commerce. Meanwhile, the expansion of the port, driven by figures like Eduardo Cabello, solidified Vigo’s status as Galicia’s economic powerhouse.

The city’s population surged as workers flocked to new factories and shipyards. Advances in transportation, including the railway connection, boosted trade and urban expansion. Despite economic progress, social inequalities persisted, leading to early labor movements.

By 1910, Vigo had firmly established itself as a dynamic and forward-thinking city, laying the foundation for its modern identity. The legacy of its patrons continues to shape Vigo’s cultural and economic landscape today.