Fun facts

Did you know that... Seville is home to the largest sculpture in Spain?

In San Jerónimo Park stands the Nacimiento de Un Hombre Nuevo (Birth of a New Man), better known as the Huevo de Colón (Columbus’ Egg), an impressive 45-meter-tall sculpture, the largest in Spain. This monumental work was a gift from the Moscow City Council to Seville in 1995. Beyond its remarkable size, the sculpture symbolizes the historical connection between Europe and the New World, and has become an iconic landmark of the city, inviting visitors to pause and reflect on the profound history it represents.

An egg that encases Colombus

The sculpture’s design captivates all who see it. The Huevo de Colón is open, and inside of it stands a figure representing the navigator, Christopher Columbus, preparing to embark on his journey to America. The egg metaphor references the famous ‘Egg of Columbus’ anecdote, in which Columbus demonstrated his cleverness by making an egg stand upright with a simple tap on its base. Here, the egg symbolizes the challenge of the impossible, the dawn of a new era of discovery, and Columbus himself embodies that spirit of exploration that changed the world forever.

 

An international gift with profound symbolic meaning

What makes the Columbus Egg even more special is that it was a gift from Moscow, a gesture of friendship that connects the city with Seville. The sculpture was created by the Russian artist Zurab Tsereteli, who was inspired by the epic of Columbus’ voyages to give shape to this monumental piece. This gift was part of the commemoration of the 5th Centenary of the Discovery of America and reinforces the international side of Seville, a city that has witnessed important historical events. Thus, the Columbus Egg speaks not only of the history of Spain, but also of the global connection that still lives in this vibrant city.

A colossus facing the Guadalquivir river

Admiring the sculpture, it’s impossible not to be struck by its colossal proportions. Standing at 45 meters tall, this sculpture claims the title of the tallest in all of Spain. Its location in San Jerónimo Park adds a unique visual dimension, allowing visitors to enjoy the majesty of the work while strolling through one of Seville’s most serene, green spaces. This setting invites visitors to pause, breathe, and remember Seville’s crucial role in the voyages that connected Europe with the Americas.

Ultimately, the Huevo de Colón is more than just a sculpture; it’s a symbol of the spirit of adventure and discovery that defines Seville—a city that continues to inspire those who visit, with a timeless history interwoven with art and culture from around the world.