Pupils from Pforzheimer embarking on a trip to sister city, Gernika
=====================================================================================
In spring 2023, 20 students from Fritz-Erler-Gymnasium embarked on a week-long journey to Gernika, Basque Country, as part of a cultural exchange programme with Gernikako Institutua. The trip, which took place from October 20th to 27th, was filled with enriching experiences, historical insights, and cultural immersion.
Itinerary Overview
The exchange began with Fritz-Erler-Gymnasium students travelling to Gernika. In return, Gernikako Institutua students visited Stuttgart, Germany, later in the year, hosting their German counterparts.
Day-to-Day Itinerary Highlights
- Arrival & Welcome: Upon arrival, students were warmly welcomed by host families and school staff at Gernikako Institutua. The opening ceremony included speeches, introductions, and cultural presentations by both sides.
- Cultural & Historical Site Visits: Students toured Gernika’s Peace Museum, learning about its WWII history and the 1937 bombing that deeply impacted Basque culture and history. They also visited the symbolic “Tree of Gernika,” a traditional Basque symbol of freedom, and local markets. Excursions to nearby towns such as Bilbao and museums like the Guggenheim were also part of the itinerary.
- School Activities and Workshops: Joint workshops on Basque and German languages focused on cultural exchange. Collaborative projects on European history and democratic values tied to both regions were undertaken. Cooking sessions with traditional Basque and German foods were also a highlight.
- Cultural Experiences: Participation in Basque traditional dance evenings and music events, experiences of local cuisine with host families, visits to artisan workshops for crafts like Basque ceramics or fiddle making, and involvement in local community projects such as environmental clean-ups or volunteering activities were all part of the cultural immersion.
- Community Engagement: Meetings with local historians or cultural ambassadors provided insights into the local culture and history.
- Farewell and Reflection: The closing ceremony included student presentations on what they learned and shared. Exchange of gifts and certificates of participation marked the end of the exchange.
Highpoints of the Exchange
- Deepening Intercultural Understanding: Students formed meaningful friendships and gained nuanced perspectives on cultural diversity.
- Historical Insight: Visiting sites related to the Spanish Civil War and Basque heritage provided a poignant context for European history lessons.
- Language Practice: Real-world immersion improved language skills and boosted confidence in communication.
- Shared Creativity: Collaborative projects and cultural workshops forged bonds and showcased the blend of German and Basque traditions.
- Host Family Experience: Living with local families offered authentic immersion into daily life and customs.
The students were also introduced to the simulators of the local maritime school by an experienced captain, explored the small fishing town of Bermeo with local teacher Erlantz Gatzaga, and participated in school activities despite occasional teacher strikes. The highlight of the trip was a day excursion to the nearby metropolis of Bilbao, which impressed with its futuristic Guggenheim Museum. The students experienced the hospitality of the Basque people throughout their visit. The city of Gernika, characterized by elegant streets and charming locales, left a lasting impression on the students.
- The trip to Gernika, Basque Country, offered cultural-travel opportunities, including visits to historical sites like the Peace Museum and local markets, immersing students into the Basque culture and lifestyle.
- The exchange programme, encompassing language workshops, shared creativity projects, and cultural experiences such as Basque traditional dance nights and food sessions, aimed to broaden the students' perspectives and enhance their travel experiences.
