An exhibition of photographs marking the 150th anniversary of Welsh settlers in Argentina has been inaugurated at the Palace of Westminster.
The images, by Argentine photographer Marcos Zimmermann, were displayed last week (7-10 July) in a showcase entitled Y Wladfa: Celebrating the 150th anniversary of the Welsh settlement in Argentina.
The exhibition comprised 60 photographs by Zimmermann, who travelled to Welsh communities in modern-day Patagonia to carry out the project.
Organised jointly with the Embassy of Argentina, the event was hosted by Welsh Affairs Committee chair David Davies. The Monmouth MP visited Patagonia in March 2014 with the previous committee as part of an inquiry into international representation and promotion of Wales by UK bodies.
“During our visit, we were fortunate to meet members of the Welsh community, some of whom were descended from the original settlers,” said Mr Davies.
“We were particularly impressed by the strength of the Welsh culture and language and the resilience of the people working hard to keep their traditions alive.
“I’m very pleased to have been able to bring these celebrations of a shared heritage to Parliament and hope that we will have cause to celebrate many future anniversaries.”
A service of thanksgiving was also held in Westminster in the Chapel of St Mary Undercroft on Tuesday (7 July) for parliamentarians, members of the Welsh Community in London and other invited guests.
Conducted by Father Pat Browne, one of Parliament’s two official chaplains, the service featured students from Ysgol Gymraeg Llundain performing a number of songs in Welsh, English and Spanish.