The 1888 Barcelona Universal Exposition

A Naval Surgeon at the Opening of the World Exhibition

Abstract

In mid-May 1888, 158 warships arrived at the port of Barcelona for the opening ceremony of the Universal Exposition, launched on 20 May by two-year-old King Alfonso XIII and Queen Consort Maria Cristina. The opening and the days that followed are described in detail in a letter sent by naval surgeon Ferenc Gáspár, who arrived on the scene on one of the battleships of the Austro-Hungarian Empire. In addition to the exhibition and its related events, the city offered a variety of activities for the visitors, including bullfights, horse races, regattas, and theater gala performances.
Hungary represented itself separately from Austria, with a group of 110 exhibitors. The majority of the products on display were from the agricultural and industrial sectors, and Hungarian mineral waters and spirits. There were also products from small-scale and cottage industries, but no artworks were exhibited. At the close of the World Exhibition, Hungarian exhibitors received 24 gold, 26 silver, and 18 bronze medals, as well as at least 10 certificates of participation and 7 letters of gratitude. Furthermore, the Queen Consort bestowed one of the Royal Order of Isabella the Catholic or the Order of Charles III upon the members of the committee that coordinated Hungary’s participation in the Universal Exposition.