El Elogio del Horizonte
Asturias, Principado de
Elogio del Horizonte is a striking concrete sculpture located on the cliffs of Cerro de Santa Catalina in Gijón, Asturias, Spain. Designed by renowned Basque sculptor Eduardo Chillida and inaugurated in 1990, the sculpture stands 10 meters tall, 15.5 meters long, and 12.5 meters wide, weighing approximately 500 tonnes. It was created as a tribute to the horizon, which Chillida poetically described as the "homeland of every man." The work features complex curved forms, achieved through meticulous craftsmanship involving a pine wooden framework and over twenty concrete mixes to perfect its color. Initially criticized for its high construction costs and unusual shape-earning the nickname "King Kong's toilet"-it has since become an iconic symbol of the city of Gijón. Positioned to overlook the Cantabrian Sea, it forms the centerpiece of a public park that was once a restricted military zone. The sculpture's surface was treated with acid cleaning to achieve its final appearance. Over the years, it has hosted official commemorations, including its 30th anniversary celebrated with exhibitions and visits from dignitaries. A restoration was planned for 2024 to preserve this landmark for future generations.
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Astuce: Visit during daylight to fully appreciate the sculpture's interaction with the horizon and sea views. Early mornings and late afternoons offer dramatic lighting and fewer crowds. Tickets are not required as it is in a public park, but checking local event schedules can enhance your visit. No specific discounts apply, but planning your visit outside peak tourist seasons can provide a more tranquil experience.
Faits intéressants
- •The sculpture weighs approximately 500 tonnes and is made of concrete.
- •It was nicknamed "King Kong's toilet" due to its unusual shape upon completion.
- •Over twenty different concrete mixes were used to achieve the perfect color and finish.
- •The sculpture stands on a site that was formerly a restricted military zone.
- •Its name translates to "Eulogy of the Horizon," symbolizing the horizon as a universal homeland.
Histoire
The concept for Elogio del Horizonte was conceived by Eduardo Chillida in 1985 as he sought an oceanfront location along the European Atlantic coast.
The city of Gijón offered the Cerro de Santa Catalina site in 1986, transitioning the area from a military zone to a public park.
After confirming the location in 1987, detailed models and preparation began, involving complex wooden formworks and a specially engineered concrete mixture.
Construction started in 1989 and was completed by October that year.
The sculpture was officially inaugurated on June 9, 1990, with attendance by local officials and artists.
Despite initial criticism over its cost and form, it gradually gained recognition as a city symbol.
In 2020, its 30th anniversary was marked by public celebrations and exhibitions, underscoring its cultural significance.
Guide du lieu
Main Structure1990
The monumental concrete form features sweeping curves and openings designed to frame the horizon and sea views, embodying Chillida's tribute to the infinite horizon.