Barcelona is preparing to pay tribute to one of its most beloved icons: Snowflake, the albino gorilla that captivated generations of visitors at the Barcelona Zoo.
Two decades after his death, the Barcelona City Council has unanimously decided to dedicate a street and erect a statue in memory of this unique primate.
The Snowflake Legacy
Snowflake became an iconic figure of Barcelona during his 36 years of residence at the Barcelona Zoo. His snow-white coat, the result of a genetic condition of albinism, made him unique in the world and earned him the affection and admiration of visitors.
It arrived in Barcelona in 1966, captured in Equatorial Guinea by hunters and later sold to Professor Jordi Sabater Pi.
During his time at the zoo, Snowflake was not only an attraction, but also an ambassador for wildlife and the importance of preserving endangered species. Its history transcended the city’s borders, making it a symbol not only of Barcelona, but also of biodiversity conservation.
The municipal tribute
The proposal to pay tribute to Snowflake arose from a petition presented by the Popular Party, backed by more than 10,000 signatures of citizens who expressed their desire to commemorate the memory of the albino gorilla.
The full City Council has unanimously supported this initiative, recognizing the importance of Snowflake in the collective and sentimental memory of the city.
Although the decision to dedicate a street to the albino gorilla has already been made, the exact location remains to be determined.
The proposal will be brought before the Ponencia del Nomenclátor, a commission composed of members of the municipal executive and professionals, which will be responsible for deciding the appropriate place for this commemorative street.
Statue in memory of Snowflake
In addition to the commemorative street, Barcelona will also honor Snowflake with the installation of a statue in his memory. This monument will become another meeting point for those who wish to remember and celebrate the life of this albino gorilla that left an indelible mark on the city.
Barcelona’s Councillor for Culture, Xavier Marcé, has indicated that one of the potential locations for the statue could be the zoo itself, where Snowflake spent most of his life. This decision and the choice of the street will be key to preserve and share the history of this emblematic inhabitant of Barcelona.
The dedication of a street and the installation of a statue will keep the memory of this albino gorial alive as a reminder of the preservation of wildlife and biodiversity.
