Located close to the Parque Berrio Metro Station in central Medellin, Plaza Botero (Parque de las Esculturas) is a cultural and visual must-see for any visitor.
The city of Medellin installed the plaza in between the Palacio de Cultura Uribe Uribe and the Museo de Antioquia in 2002 as part of an urban renewal program. The park has 23 sculptures given to the city by the famous Colombian artist, Fernando Botero.
A native of Medellin, Fernando Botero is often referred to as the “most Colombian of Colombian artists.” He is famous for his paintings and sculptures with over-exaggerated figures and voluptuous curves. At Plaza Botero you will often see children climbing on some of his most famous figures.
On one side of Plaza Botero is the beautiful black and white Palacio de Cultura Uribe Uribe, which hosts exhibitions, concerts, and other cultural events. On the other side is the Museo de Antioquia, not the greatest of museums, but features a variety of Latin American art and has an entire gallery dedicated to Botero’s work.
The plaza during the day is almost always bustling. It is a great place to people-watch but stay aware of your belongings since, like any major city, there will be pick-pockets. Plaza Botero is a great place to pick up souvenirs and don’t forget the plethora of street vendors selling ice cream, pre-cut fresh fruits slathered in salt and lime juice, customizable sweets called “obleos,” candy, and of course fried delights like empanadas and churros (sugarcoated fried dough rings).
Not only is Plaza Botero a cultural and visual gem but it is close to some of the city’s other main attractions like the Plaza Cisneros, the Botanical Gardens, and the Parque de los Deseos.