Barcelona – the most beautiful city in Spain and the vibrant heart of Catalonia.
As Barcelona is stunning and is full of energy, so was the 3 day 8th ESSENS Anniversary celebration party on the 11th - 13th of October, 2019. 210 guests enjoyed unforgettable moments in the luxury five-star Hotel Arts Barcelona, one of the world's largest hotel chains, Marriott International. Situated on 44 floors by the sea, the iconic building offers its clients a unique Michelin restaurant and a majestic view of the beautiful city.
The official program began on Friday afternoon with a visit to the UNESCO-listed Güell Park. The impressive park full of greenery, situated on a hill above Barcelona, is offering a panoramic view of the city and also an unprecedented number of coloured sculptures by Antonio Gaudí, who lived there in one of the houses for a period of time. After a group photo was taken, everybody moved to a renowned Salamanca restaurant for a rich dinner and then we all had a chance to enjoy a stunning music show of the Màgica de Montjuïc fountain.
The masterpiece of Antonio Gaudi and the renowned landmark of Barcelona, the Sagrada Familia, began the Saturday programme with a private tour with an interesting guide's commentary. Other important buildings of the Catalan architect, Casa Milà and Casa Batlló, located on the Passeig de Gràcia Boulevard in Barcelona, were not missed and could be admired at least from outside. There was also a tour of the medieval Gothic Quarter, followed by a hearty lunch at a typical Catalan restaurant - Mariscco.
Until the last moment none of the members knew where the gala evening would take place. This was all the more surprising when nine luxurious limousines arrived in front of the hotel, which gradually took guests to the secret location. And it was a truly enchanting setting because the gala evening was set in the magnificent Casa Llotja de Mar, which had been the place of a stock exchange, a royal chamber of commerce and an art school since the 14th century, where also Pablo Picasso himself studied.
This time the spacious hall became the scene of a spectacular event. After an opening speech by Mr. Michal Kovář and after a ceremonial toast, an excellent five-course menu from Michelin chefs at the Arts Hotel was served. The dinner was complemented by a typical Catalan accompanying programme, featuring the best Flamenco choir in Barcelona, a breath-taking performance by the Catalan acrobats - Castellers and a phenomenal musical performance by Los Desmadraos.
This was followed by a rewards ceremony, presenting awards to the most successful leaders of the past year, also thanking the honorary guests and ESSENS owners. The official programme was ended by cutting of the birthday cake, which symbolically took a step into the ninth year of our successful company.
Before the official announcement of the after party, which took place in the Bestial Club located on the beach at the hotel, Mr. Michal Kovář introduced a fascinating video of London as a small taste of the planned 9th ESSENS Anniversary celebration.
