Bagà
Last Week on the Road
My Epic Journey So Far
Today’s Weather Report
Well, here I am in Bagà, wearing my cloud-patterned hat, because the skies are generously sprinkled with overcast clouds. The temperature is a “cold-nose, warm-heart” 9.41°C. Feels exactly like 9.41°C, you say? Try telling that to my ceramic toes! Humidity’s at a breezy 48%, not enough to frizz my beard, thankfully. And the wind – a gentle 1.11 m/s, just enough to give my gnome hat a flirty flutter. For a garden gnome who’s used to being a permanent outdoor fixture, this is just another day of adventure!
Gnome-ward Bound in Bagà!
The journey from Moià to Bagà was a spectacle for the senses. The road was adorned with olive groves and vineyards, the air was filled with the scent of blooming flowers and the distant sound of cowbells was a melody to my ears. But the most intriguing part was the sudden change in architecture as I approached Bagà. The stone houses, narrow streets and the medieval square – Plaza Porxada, have a story to tell. It’s like stepping back in time, a stark contrast from the modern cityscape of Sabadell and the bustling Barcelona I visited earlier.
The locals here are fond of saying, “No hay camino, se hace camino al andar“. It means “There is no path, the path is made by walking”. This quote, originally from the famous Spanish poet Antonio Machado, resonated with me deeply. It’s been 48 days on the road, and each step forward is carving out my unique path.
In the spirit of Bagà’s local music, let me share a verse from a popular local song, “La Balanguera”. “La Balanguera como el viento de la montaña viene y va“, which translates to, “La Balanguera, like the mountain wind, comes and goes”. Just like me, isn’t it? Always on the move, always seeking the next adventure.
Until we meet again, remember, el mundo es un libro y aquellos que no viajan leen sólo una página – “The world is a book and those who do not travel read only one page”.
Adios amigos, until next time.
Wandering Bagà’s Streets
Gnome’s Petite Picasso Attempt
Painted en plein air while taking in the sights of Bagà.
— Oliver the Gnome, aspiring artist
Bagà: Medieval Mirth and Mythical Monsters!
As I waddle through the historic streets of Bagà, the weight of its rich history hits me. The first thing that stands out is the magnificent Plaça Porxada, a rectangular porticoed square that dates back to the 13th century. It’s a testament to the town’s medieval splendor, as in Spanish they say, “Una joya de la arquitectura medieval” – a jewel of medieval architecture.
Next, I am taken by the Legend of the Dip, a mythical creature said to roam these parts. Spanish poet Federico García Lorca once wrote, “El misterio está siempre en los ojos del dip” – the mystery is always in the eyes of the dip. It’s a chilling tale, wrapped in the warm, vibrant culture of Bagà.
This gnome is off to more adventures, but the history and legends of Bagà will forever echo in my memory.
Lisping Lessons and Loo Locations
Hola amigos! That’s “Hello friends” in Spanish, Spain’s official language. Let’s learn a few phrases:
1. “Buenos días” (bwenos dee-as), which means “Good morning”. Great way to start a conversation here.
2. “Gracias” (gra-thyas, remember Spaniards lisp their ‘c’), is “Thank you”. Use it often, politeness goes a long way.
3. “¿Dónde está el baño?” (don-deh es-ta el ban-yo), “Where is the bathroom?” Trust me, you’ll need this one.
Now, Bagà’s in Catalonia, where they speak Catalan. It’s similar to Spanish but not quite. A unique aspect is the phrase “Adeu” (ah-deh-oo) which means “Goodbye”. It’s a reminder of the region’s distinct culture. So, when in Bagà, say “Adeu!” instead of “Adios!”. Now, go practice your new skills, and as they say in Spain, “¡Buena suerte!” (bwen-a swer-te), or “Good luck!”
Bagà’s Gnome-orable Sights
See you tomorrow!
Around the World on Foot, in Many, Many Days 