Introduction
Have you ever been to the Plaza de la Revolucion of 1868 in Barcelona? If you haven't already, you're in for an exciting adventure. This square is full of history and traditions, and keeps centuries of stories alive. It was the scene of the 1868 Revolution, which overthrew Queen Elizabeth II and marked the beginning of a democratic period. During the Franco dictatorship, it was known as Plaza de la Unificación and, after the return of democracy to Spain, it was renamed Plaza de la Revolución.
Today it is a lively destination in Barcelona and is home to a beautiful mosaic depicting a game of hopscotch. In 1995, the square underwent extensive remodeling, during which a hidden air-raid shelter from the Spanish Civil War was discovered. Although much of it has been lost over time, there is still a small area with remains of an old infirmary that can be accessed from the fourth floor of the car park.
Join me to explore this iconic square, its turbulent history, and some lesser-known secrets waiting to be discovered.
History and importance of the Revolution in Barcelona
You may think you know Barcelona, but the city you live in today is far from that of 1868. That year, the Plaza de la Revolución witnessed the overthrow of Queen Elizabeth II and the beginning of the Democratic Six-Year Period.
The Plaza de la Revolución was renamed "Plaza de la Unificación" during the Franco regime and regained its original name in the 1980s. Its most famous feature is probably its mosaic floor, inaugurated during the 1997 Fiesta de Gracia
When it was remodeled in 1995, historians discovered a Civil War-era bomb shelter beneath it. As expected, only a small part of this refuge remains, but it remains an important reminder of Barcelona's history and revolutionary past.
The Symbolism of the Mosaic Game of Hopscotch
When you enter the Plaza de la Revolución, what most attracts your attention is the mosaic of the game of hopscotch that is under your feet. This work of art was inaugurated in 1997, but it has a much deeper history, each image is a journey through the traditional festival of Gracia that is highly appreciated by the residents.
The Discovery of the Civil War Refuge
When the plaza was redeveloped in 1995, the team was in for an interesting surprise: workers discovered a Civil War bomb shelter. The shelter contained different rooms in the basement, some of them intended for medical use. An exhaustive archaeological study was carried out to preserve the remains and take concrete measures for their preservation.
Currently, in the Plaza de la Revolución, only a small area of the nursing room remains, which is preserved with protective sheets and acrylic domes to protect it from atmospheric agents. This small part of the refuge is a testimony of the past that fortunately has been able to remain intact until today.
Conclusion
The Plaza de la Revolución of 1868 is full of history and symbolism. Today, the square is one of the favorite places for locals and tourists, who come to enjoy the beauty of its mosaics, fountains, and monuments.
Every time we walk through the Plaza de la Revolución, we can appreciate its beautiful past and present. Its history of revolution and progress reflects the progress of the city of Barcelona and of all those who have contributed to its transformation over the years.