Plaza Botero and the City Center
Botero and His Sculptures
<p>Fernando Botero, born in Medellin in 1932, is one of the most recognized living Latin American artists, known worldwide for his voluptuous, exaggerated figures, a style called Boterismo. The 23 bronzes in the plaza, from horses to reclining women to a giant hand, are some of his most beloved public works. Locals rub certain statues for luck, so do not be surprised to see shiny spots on the bronze.</p>
The Antioquia Museum
<p>Right on the plaza, the Museo de Antioquia is one of the most important art museums in Colombia and holds a vast Botero collection donated by the artist, including paintings and sculptures. Beyond Botero, it covers Colombian and international art and the region history. It is an excellent paid stop to pair with the free outdoor sculptures, ideal for a rainy hour or a deeper dive into local culture.</p>
Exploring the City Center
<p>The plaza is the gateway to historic downtown. Nearby sit the gothic style Metropolitan Cathedral on Parque Bolivar, the lively Carabobo pedestrian street, the Botanical Garden a short metro ride away and the Parque de las Luces with its forest of light poles. The center is best explored by day and ideally on a guided walking tour for context and peace of mind, as it gets quieter after dark.</p><ul><li>23 free Botero bronzes</li><li>Museo de Antioquia next door</li><li>Gateway to historic downtown</li></ul>
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Plaza Botero free to visit?
Yes, the 23 Botero sculptures in the plaza are outdoors and free to see anytime. The adjacent Antioquia Museum has a paid entry.
Is the city center safe?
The center is fine to visit by day, ideally on a guided walking tour. It gets quieter and less safe after dark, so plan around daytime.
How many Botero statues are there?
There are 23 monumental bronze sculptures by Fernando Botero displayed in the plaza, all donated by the artist to his home city.