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Queen Sofía concludes visit to New Orleans honoring Spanish heritage
Queen Sofía concluded a four-day visit to New Orleans, Louisiana, focused on commemorating the Spanish historical footprint in the region and strengthening ties between Spain and the United States.
The final day of the trip included a floral offering at the statue of General Bernardo de Gálvez on Canal Street, accompanied by New Orleans Mayor Helena Moreno. The ceremony honored Spanish casualties and included the playing of both national anthems.
Additionally, the Queen met with approximately 35 families from the 'Isleños' community in St. Bernard Parish. These families are descendants of Canary Islanders who migrated to Louisiana between 1778 and 1783 to help populate and defend the territory under the direction of Bernardo de Gálvez. The meeting highlighted the enduring cultural, linguistic, and musical heritage preserved by the community, which was established to secure the Mississippi Delta against British threats during the late 18th century.