In a small village called Jabaloyas in Teruel, the local mayor took dramatic action to seek help for his church, which is on the verge of collapse. Frustrated after numerous attempts to rally local, state, and religious authorities for support, he decided to travel to the Vatican in January and directly appeal to the Pope. This act of desperation highlights both personal dedication and a broader issue of neglect facing rural communities in Spain, often referred to as 'empty Spain'.

Upon arriving at the Vatican, the mayor found himself surrounded by many others seeking the Pope's attention, including priests, families, and tourists, all waiting for their chance to address the leader of the Catholic Church. For the mayor of Jabaloyas, this was not just a personal mission; it was a stand for the preservation of a cultural and historical landmark that plays a vital role in the identity of his village. His efforts emphasized the struggles faced by small communities that struggle in the shadow of larger urban centers.

The story reflects broader themes of rural decline in Spain, where many villages are similarly facing threats to their cultural heritage and infrastructure due to population decline and lack of government support. By bringing this issue to the attention of the Pope, the mayor not only aimed to save his church but also to shine a light on the plight of many other neglected rural areas across the country, potentially prompting broader discussions about support for these communities.