Gregorio Morán, the prominent Spanish journalist and essayist, passed away at the age of 79 this Monday. Morán, who was born in Oviedo in 1947, was widely acknowledged for his sharp and combative writing style, which made him one of the most recognizable voices in Spanish journalism. He contributed significantly to various media outlets, including 'Mundo Obrero', 'Cambio 16', and 'La Vanguardia', where he spent nearly three decades as a columnist. His work, particularly in reviewing the myths and narratives of the democratic Transition in Spain, left a profound impact on the field of journalism.

Throughout his career, Morán was known for his incisive critiques and uncovering the nuances of the democratic Transition period in Spain. He gained significant popularity for his Saturday column 'Sabatinas intempestivas' in La Vanguardia, which became one of the most read and influential opinion pieces in the Spanish press. His ability to challenge conventional narratives about Spain’s democracy set him apart from many of his contemporaries. He continued to write until 2017 when he left La Vanguardia after alleging censorship regarding one of his articles, highlighting the challenges faced by journalists in maintaining freedom of expression.

Morán's work extended beyond mere journalism, as he authored a prominent biography of Adolfo Suárez, the first democratic Prime Minister after Franco's regime, further solidifying his status as a critical analyst of Spain's political landscape. His passing marks the loss of a significant figure in contemporary Spanish journalism, whose contributions to understanding Spain’s history and political culture will be remembered for years to come.