Author and historian, Tito Benady, dies aged 96

Author and historian Tito Benady has died at the age of 96.

He was celebrated for his contribution to Gibraltar's history, heritage and cultural identity, and published a series of books and essays on the history of the Rock.

Although his work was diverse, his core research was on Gibraltar's military importance as a naval base, as well as the history of its Jewish population.

He was awarded the MBE for services to local history, and recognised with a Ministry of Culture Lifetime Achievement Award.

He co-founded the Heritage Journal and also lectured at the University of Gibraltar.

Mr Benady spent the Second World War as an evacuee in Madeira and had a professional career in finance before he dedicated himself to historical research.

He owned the Gibraltar Bookshop which he said was not very profitable, but did it because he loved books.

This year, before his death, he donated his entire book collection, some 4000 volumes,to the Garrison Library.

The following is an excerpt from a never-before broadcast interview which is now published on our website in its entirety

The Chief Minister has expressed his deep sadness at the death of Tito Benady.

Fabian Picardo describes him as one of Gibraltar’s great historians and one of the Rock’s most respected cultural figures.

He says Tito Benady helped generations of Gibraltarians better understand our past and appreciate the richness of our community and culture.

He says His work will continue to educate and inspire for many years to come.