Newsroom
President Nikos Christodoulides is traveling to Barcelona on Wednesday for a high-profile cultural and diplomatic visit that mixes religion, art, and European politics all in one trip.
He will attend the inauguration of the iconic Sagrada Familia, the famous basilica designed by Antoni Gaudí, at the invitation of the Spanish government. The event is taking place under Cyprus’ current role as holder of the EU Council presidency, meaning the president is representing Cyprus in a broader European context.
The ceremony is expected to bring together heads of state and government from across Europe and beyond. Pope Leo will also lead a solemn service at the basilica, including the blessing of a newly completed tower. The inauguration carries added symbolic weight as it marks 100 years since Gaudí’s death, the visionary behind one of Europe’s most recognizable landmarks.
For many Cypriots, the Sagrada Familia is one of those places you’ve probably seen in photos or on Instagram, even if you haven’t made it to Barcelona yet. Its long-running construction has made it almost as famous as its design.
According to the Presidential Press Office, Christodoulides is attending in his capacity as president of the EU Council presidency member state, highlighting Cyprus’ role in European cultural and political events this semester.
On Thursday, the president will continue his visit with a stop at the Picasso Museum, where he will attend an exhibition titled “Picasso and Cyprus: Encounters with the Ceramics of the Mediterranean.” The event forms part of Cyprus’ cultural program linked to its EU presidency.
He is expected to return to Cyprus later on Thursday.
