Last weekend, FC Barcelona held the Marxa Culer, an event that not only commemorated the club's 125th anniversary but also celebrated the millennium of the Monastery of Montserrat. The walk, covering 46.7 kilometers and lasting over 10 hours, began at the Estadi Johan Cruyff and culminated at the iconic monastery, a place of great significance for Catalan culture.
The president of FC Barcelona, Joan Laporta, was the one to kick off the march, walking the first 7 kilometers alongside participants. Upon arriving at Montserrat, Laporta was warmly welcomed by the walkers, who celebrated the bond between Barça and the abbey. "It is a reason for emotion to be here. Barça is more than a club, and those who made the Marxa are heroes who deserve applause," the president stated, highlighting the importance of the historical connection between both institutions.
The day was not only a tribute to the past but also a celebration of the present. During the event, the titles won by the men's and women's teams of Barça in the 2024-25 season were displayed, which were also offered to the Virgin of Montserrat. This gesture symbolizes the deep relationship between the club and Catalan culture, a bond that has strengthened over the years.
The institutional vice president of FC Barcelona, Elena Fort, and the commissioner for the 125th anniversary, David Carabén, were also present, participating in the short walk that departed from the Rambla de Collbató. Participation was massive, with spots sold out days before the event, demonstrating the fervor and passion of the Barça fans.
At one point during the day, Laporta addressed the media, avoiding details about the transfer market but making it clear that Barça remains a reference in the football world. "You are incorrigible," he joked in response to questions about potential signings like Joan Garcia or Nico Williams.
The event culminated with a mass at the Basilica of Montserrat, where Laporta offered a floral tribute to the Virgin and reaffirmed the importance of Barça as a refuge for Catalans in difficult times. "Montserrat and Barça are distinct institutions, but we are united by a common thread: we have served as a refuge for Catalans when the wind blew against us," the president stated, emphasizing the significance of the shared history between the club and the monastery.
The Marxa Culer was not just a sporting event but a celebration of Catalan identity and culture, uniting fans in an act of camaraderie and pride. With enthusiastic participation and a festive atmosphere, FC Barcelona has once again demonstrated that its legacy goes beyond football, solidifying itself as a symbol of unity and resilience for all Catalans.