Parade figure of Ukrainian writer Lesya Ukrainka showcased in Barcelona

A giant parade statue of Lesya Ukrainka, a literary innovator and a cultural myth-maker, was unveiled in the Spanish city of Barcelona to symbolize freedom, equality, and Ukrainian identity, the European Congress of Ukrainians (ECU) reported.

“An important event for Ukrainian-European relations took place in Barcelona on Sept. 14,” the ECU said.

Born as Lesya Kosach in the Zhytomyr region, her literary contribution during Russian czarist rule of Ukraine inspired the nation’s spirit to gain independence. 

The Catalonian tradition to parade oversized figures dates back to the Middle Ages, the organization mentioned.

“The Ukrainian community, together with Catalanion partners, brought this unique cultural project to life as a gesture of political solidarity and integration. The godparents of the giant are Kyiv’s giants, Princess Olha and Prince Volodymyr, as well as key giants from Barcelona,” the ECU said.

The Lesya Ukrainka figure was first displayed at Barcelona City Hall and will participate in major events of both the Ukrainian and Catalan communities.