Celebrating Poetry in Montjuïc
The Montjuïc mountain, an emblematic place in Barcelona, has become a true tribute to Catalan literature with the presence of figures such as Verdaguer, Maragall, Costa and Llobera, and Brossa. The Barcelona Poetry Festival recently organized an event that united nature with poetic voices on an exceptional tour of the gardens dedicated to these authors.
A literary journey through the gardens
On Saturday, May 10, the Gardens of Mossèn Cinto Verdaguer hosted two guided visits with the aim of celebrating the rich poetic heritage of Catalonia. Organized by Teresa Macià, the route was dramatized by Francesc Maginet, who contributed a fresh and dynamic tone to the event. His interpretation, complemented by his guitar, caused the attendees to enter the poetic universe of the great masters.
A historical and botanical context
Lluís Bastida enriched the visit with historical and botanical data, providing a more complete view on the meaning of these gardens, which will soon change their name to Jacint Verdaguer. With more than two thousand meters of flower beds and an impressive number of bulbs planted annually, gardens are an example of the natural beauty that can inspire literary creation.
The inspiration that flows between nature
Recent rains have left a landscape that would inspire any poet. Verdaguer himself captured this essence in his verses, reminding us that nature is a constant source of inspiration. In this context, it is easy to imagine Maragall or Rodoreda being carried away by the beauty of the flowers that adorned the route.
Recitals between history and modernity
As we headed for the cable car, Maginet recited with Joan Brossa’s ‘funicular’ passion, and, when he reached a raised platform, the words of Pessarrodona and Estellés resonated strongly, expressing his love for the city. In addition, an ironic fragment of ‘Private Life’ of Sagarra served to remember the impact of the International Exhibition of 1929 on the transformation of Montjuïc.
A legacy that deserves to be discovered
Montjuïc is a space where nature and history merge. The gardens of Mossèn Cinto Verdaguer, opened during the Franco regime, are a treasure little known by the locals. Francesc Pujols anticipated that Montjuïc would become one of the great gardens in the world, and it is a real penalty that has not yet been fully explored by the public.
A unique and repeatable experience
As we delve into narcisos and magnolia, the presence of poets like Maginet makes Montjuïc a unique place. If this poetic tour has aroused your interest, you will have a new opportunity to enjoy it on June 4, as well as during the Verdaguer party, which will take place between May 16 and June 10, with commented visits and a variety of activities.
