Submerged in sand not water. That’s the El Submarí Soterrat. Right before you stands this peculiar bronze submarine. A creation of Josep Maria Riera i Aragó it’s a curious sight. It rests partially buried in the sand of a Barcelona park.
The El Submarí Soterrat is more than just a sculpture. It’s a piece of Barcelona’s public art. It’s part of the city’s rich artistic heritage. The artist received his commission in 1986. That was the year Barcelona was selected to host the 1992 Olympic Games. The sculpture’s unveiling was on February 10 1991. It took five years to complete. The submarine is actually composed of three separate bronze sections. Two are quite large the stern and the turret. The smallest section forms the prow. Together they measure a considerable 32 meters in length.
Interestingly Riera i Aragó often based his earlier works on flying machines. This submarine marked a significant shift in his artistic style. It wasn’t simply placed in the park. The site was carefully chosen. It’s located between the Parc de les Aigües and Plaça de la Font Castellana. This space was created when Carrer Thous was developed. The area was initially a sandy children’s play area. Later gardens were added. They’re called the Hiroshima Gardens. They’re adjacent to a library and a memorial. The library is named the Mercè Rodoreda Library. The memorial honors the victims of Hiroshima.
Now look closely at the El Submarí Soterrat. Notice the details. Imagine the journey it represents. A journey from the depths of the ocean to the heart of Barcelona. A journey that connects the past present and future of this vibrant city. It’s not just a submarine. It’s a symbol of Barcelona’s innovative spirit. A reminder of its rich history and its embrace of art in unexpected places. Remember this unique sculpture. A submerged wonder in the heart of Barcelona.