The Medal of Extremadura (Spanish: Medalla de Extremadura) is the highest institutional distinction of the Autonomous Community of Extremadura, Spain. It was established in 1986, following Decree 27/1986, of 29 April. It is an annual award, whose number may vary, without exceeding ten medals in the same year, except those granted by courtesy or reciprocity. Such was the case in 2008, in which ten medals were handed out on an ordinary basis, but two were granted in an extraordinary manner to Queen Sofía and the former President of the Government of Extremadura, Juan Carlos Rodríguez Ibarra. The delivery of the Medal falls to the President of the Regional Government of Extremadura, who by decree awards it, listing the merits for which the prize is obtained. However, any citizen of Extremadura or entity can submit a candidature before the regional administration, which can then be taken into consideration by a commission and subsequently approved by the Governing Council. In this case, up to five medals are reserved, leaving the rest in the judgment of the Chief Executive of Extremadura. In the case of medals for courtesy or reciprocity, the proposal is exclusive of the President. The winners can be individuals, entities, corporations, or associations that have been outstanding in or out of Extremadura due to their merits or for the services rendered to the region. Thus, the medal has gone to people in the world of arts and sports, political personalities, local corporations, financial institutions, associations, religious congregations, and monasteries, among others. The Medal of Extremadura is normally presented at an event held on the eve of 8 September, Extremadura Day, at the Roman Theatre of Mérida, capital city of the Autonomous Community. Source: Wikipedia (en)