As part of the activities for International Book Day, the Provincial Historical Archive of Jaén, under the Ministry of Culture and Sport, is exhibiting a notarial deed from 1592. This document, signed by Miguel de Cervantes, is one of four preserved by the institution from the celebrated author of Don Quixote.

Cervantes' signature, appearing as "Cerbantes" with a 'b', was made before the city's notary, Pedro Núñez de Ayala. At that time, the writer served as one of the two commissioners for the General Purveyor of the Galleys of Spain, a role that brought him to Jaén and other Andalusian towns.

Cervantes' task involved procuring goods such as wheat, barley, beans, and chickpeas in the Bishopric of Jaén and other cities like Córdoba, Granada, Málaga, and Cádiz. These provisions were intended for the production of hardtack to supply the galleys in ports such as Santa María, Málaga, and Antequera.

The documents confirming Cervantes' stay in Jaén are dated March 14, 18, 23, and 31, 1592. In these writings, the author delegated part of his commission to individuals such as Diego López Delgadillo, Cristóbal Pizarro, and Antón Caballero, with specific instructions for those who proved uncooperative, including the authority to break down doors and locks to collect the necessary goods.

The territorial delegate for Culture and Sport, José Ayala, visited the exhibition with students from a local school, who participated in an initiative where students act as guides for their neighborhood. On this occasion, they were greeted by individuals dressed as Miguel de Cervantes, adding a special touch to the cultural visit.