The 1992 Olympics

In 1992, before I was born, during the Olympic year in Barcelona, Rafael Verdera was chosen to make a short voyage with a precious cargo.

The flame that had been collected in Olympia and disembarked in Ampurias made a journey through all the Spanish regions, and only a few boats carried it on their limited maritime routes.

The day before the Olympics opening, the Rafael Verdera set sail from the port of Palma to collect the flame from the previous bearer off the southwest coast of Mallorca and deliver it to the city of Palma at 11:00 on July 23, 1992. A fantastic day and an unforgettable experience for those who were crew members that day, and especially for my father (in the middle of the photo), Mikel Arizmendi, the ship’s captain.

The Olympic torch still remains on board the Verdera today, and it is proudly displayed for those who visit the ship.