The arrival of the Colombian Navy’s ARC Gloria training ship in Barcelona brings with it an exciting opportunity for the city’s residents and visitors.
From May 11 to 15, 2024, this majestic ship will be open to the public, offering the possibility to explore its decks and discover its fascinating maritime history free of charge.
The ARC Gloria is much more than just a ship; it is a symbol of Colombia’s naval history and an emblem of maritime training in the South American country.
This is not Barcelona’s first encounter with the ARC Gloria. In 2012, the ship visited the city, allowing the curious to go inside and learn about Colombia’s culture and history.
This time, the ship returns with a new group of cadets, continuing its mission as a platform for learning about coastal and astronomical navigation, modern navigation and communication equipment and other essential seamanship skills.
Colombia’s training ship ARC Gloria on a visit to Barcelona
The ARC Gloria set sail from the Colombian Caribbean with 73 students on board, including 12 women, who are training to become officers in the Colombian Navy.
Her voyage via Baltimore, Lisbon, Civitavecchia and Marseille culminates in Barcelona, where a crew change will take place and the first phase of her voyage will be concluded.
During its stay in the Catalan capital, the ARC Gloria will host a series of cultural and protocol events, organized in collaboration with the Colombian Embassy in Spain.
These events will offer the public the opportunity to get to know the most representative of Colombian culture, from live music to gastronomic presentations and exhibitions.
The ARC Gloria will offer visitors the opportunity to explore its decks and discover its fascinating history with the crew.
In addition to guided tours, there will be cultural activities such as live concerts, gastronomic presentations, talks and exhibitions, all within the framework of “Colombia, the country of beauty”, a tourism promotion initiative promoted by the Embassy of Colombia in Barcelona.
The program will also include special events to commemorate the tenth anniversary of the death of writer Gabriel García Márquez, who had a close relationship with Barcelona. Readings of his works and theatrical performances of his writings will offer a unique look at the Colombian author’s influence on the city.
History and cultural exchange
The arrival of the ARC Gloria not only offers an opportunity to learn about Colombia’s naval history, but also promotes cultural exchange between Spain and Colombia.
After its passage through Barcelona, the ARC Gloria will continue its voyage through Europe, calling at cities such as Antwerp, Stockholm, Kiel, The Hague and London.
