Hiroko Takenaka

Hiroko Takenaka is a Professor at the School of Human Sciences, Complutense University of Madrid, specializing in Cultural Anthropology with a focus on European Anthropology, Urban Anthropology, and Heritage Studies. Her work bridges theoretical analysis with extensive fieldwork in Spain, particularly Catalonia and Galicia.

• Research Areas: Cultural anthropology, Anthropology of Europe, Urban anthropology, Heritage studies
• Professional Memberships: Japanese Society of Cultural Anthropology, Asociación Galega de Antropoloxi Cultural i Social

Takenaka's research examines anthropological dynamics of European pilgrimage routes, gender roles in traditional performances, and cultural preservation mechanisms. She has conducted ethnographic studies on:

• Catalan Castells (human towers) and their political implications
• Galician cultural revitalization through volunteer associations
• Gender equality in traditionally male-dominated practices
• Heritage commodification in pilgrimage tourism

Her scientific award (V Premio Antonio Duran Gudiol) recognizes contributions to Spanish cultural analysis. Teaching activities span Urban Anthropology, Cultural Anthropology, and Ritual Studies at graduate and undergraduate levels.

Key Contributions include:

• Analysis of gender dynamics in Catalan human towers
• Documentation of pilgrimage hospitality systems
• Ethnographic studies of Galician village communities
• Investigation of cultural heritage's political dimensions