On the same day that Colombia made it through to the semi-finals of the Copa América football tournament and England secured a place in the semi-finals at Euro 2024 after a dramatic victory over Switzerland, Colombia’s tall-ship ARC Gloria entered the City of London. The stunning image of the Colombian insignia ship crossing through Tower Bridge along the River Thames marked a significant moment in the vessel’s illustrious history.
The ARC Gloria, commissioned on September 7, 1968, is the official flagship and sail training vessel of the Colombian Navy. She was built in the Celaya shipyard in Bilbao, Spain, and is one of the few remaining active tall ships used for training purposes in the world. With a length of 67 meters and a mast height of 40 meters, the Gloria is a magnificent sight, showcasing the maritime heritage of Colombia.
The ship is known for its colorful and elaborate figurehead, which features a representation of Gloria, the Roman goddess of glory, symbolizing the ship’s name. The ARC Gloria has a crew of approximately 150, including cadets who receive extensive training in navigation, seamanship, and leadership while on board.
The ARC Gloria’s visit to London is part of a larger tour of port cities around the world, aimed at promoting cultural exchange and strengthening international relations. During her visit, the ship was open to the public, allowing visitors to explore her decks, learn about Colombian naval traditions, and engage with the crew. The visit coincided with cultural events, highlighting Colombia’s biodiversity and close cultural and economic ties with the United Kingdom. Colombia and the United Kingdom with celebrate next year 250-years of diplomatic relations.
As the ARC Gloria sailed past the iconic landmarks of London, including the historic Tower Bridge and the modern skyscrapers of the financial district, she served as a floating ambassador of Colombia, fostering goodwill and showcasing the country’s pride and maritime prowess. The ship’s arrival in London was a symbolic convergence of sporting triumphs and maritime tradition, celebrating both Colombia’s success on the football field and its rich nautical heritage.
