Castelldefels launches Walk of Stars honoring Ronaldinho and FC Barcelona
Initiative by celebrity-rich city seeks to honor notable residents, with plans to expand beyond sports
Castelldefels, a coastal town outside Barcelona, has created its own Walk of Stars, a replica of Hollywood's Walk of Fame.
The initiative of the city, which is home to many celebrities, aims to honor personalities who have lived in the town.
The first two stars were dedicated to former FC Barcelona player Ronaldinho and the club itself.
The Brazilian player lived in the city while playing for Barça from 2003 to 2008.
Ronaldinho, who was present to receive the plaque, said he was "excited" and "proud" to receive this tribute in a city he considers "home".
"I never imagined that I would have something like this," Ronaldinho said, adding that he often talks about Castelldefels when he travels around the world.
The town's mayor, Manu Reyes, hopes that "Castelldefels and Barcelona will become the Hollywood of southern Europe" because "so many famous people" live there.
The Walk of Stars also honored FC Barcelona. The mayor said that the link between the club and Castelldefels "has always been extraordinary."
"Barça plays in Barcelona, but they eat, have fun, dream and sleep in Castelldefels," said the mayor.
Laporta, who has a second home in Castelldefels, said it was an "honor" to receive a star "next to Ronnie".
Reyes assured that more names will be added to the boulevard by the sea, not only from the world of sports, but also from culture, science and music.