Barcelona’s historic Plaça de Sant Jaume travelled back in time on Sunday morning, its Gothic and Renaissance façades providing the backdrop for an extraordinary scene from the early 20th century. Nearly a hundred vintage vehicles, all manufactured before 1928, assembled in the square for the start of the 68th International Vintage Car Rally to Sitges, a cherished tradition that continues to captivate residents and surprise tourists.
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Drivers and their companions, dressed meticulously in period attire, brought the era to life, creating a living museum in the heart of the city. The event, Europe’s oldest of its kind and the second-oldest in the world after the London–Brighton Rally, transforms the 46-kilometre coastal drive into a spectacular rolling exhibition of automotive history.
A Tribute to Gaudí’s Legacy
This year’s rally holds special significance as it coincides with the celebration of ‘Gaudí Year’. It commemorates the centenary of the death of Barcelona’s most famous architect, Antoni Gaudí.
The official event poster features the architect. It frames the rally as a celebration of two powerful symbols of early 20th-century technological and social progress: the burgeoning motor car and Gaudí’s revolutionary modernista architecture.
The timing aligns with a city-wide reflection on the architect’s influence, from the ongoing work at the Sagrada Família to new ways of engaging with his work, such as the Gaudí VR experience recently launched at Barcelona Cathedral. Experts continue to find new meaning in his designs, often highlighting how Gaudí’s profound faith was key to his work.
A Passion Passed Through Generations
For many participants, the rally is more than just a drive; it’s a family tradition. According to a report by the Tot Barcelona news outlet, which gathered testimonies from drivers, the event fosters a unique generational bond.
Enric Prat told the Agència Catalana de Notícies (ACN) that he first attended the rally with his grandfather. “It’s a moment we share with him. It’s his passion and he has passed it on to us,” he explained.
This sentiment was echoed by Josep Maria from Sant Vicenç de Castellet, who arrived with his daughters in a vehicle from 1929. “We have a good time,” he summarised simply. The challenge and charm of driving these museum-piece vehicles, which lack the comforts of modern cars, is a major part of the appeal. Several participants noted the direct connection with the machine. “You feel that you are the one driving it,” was a common reflection from those gathered in Plaça de Sant Jaume.
The international draw of the event was also evident. Madeleine, from Portugal, was in Barcelona with her classic 1899 vehicle and an accompanying 1899 tricycle, showcasing the remarkable age of some of the participating automobiles.
From the Gothic Quarter to the Coast
After leaving Plaça de Sant Jaume, the convoy of polished brass, wood, and steel makes its way through the streets of Barcelona, navigating the iconic winding roads of the Garraf coast before arriving in the picturesque seaside town of Sitges. There, the cars are left on public display, allowing admirers to get a closer look at the intricate engineering and design of a bygone era.
As a tradition that has endured for nearly seven decades, the Barcelona-Sitges rally remains a highlight of the city’s cultural calendar. It serves not only as a tribute to engineering history but also as a vibrant, moving celebration of the shared heritage that continues to connect generations.
