The plaza was renamed Plaza Botero in common parlance due to the 23 large-scale bronze sculptures donated by Fernando Botero in 2002, though formally part of the historical Plazuela Nutibara complex.
The sculptures are cast in bronze and are intentionally oversized, a signature style of the artist known as 'Boterismo'.
The plaza occupies the former site of the Viejo Palacio Municipal, which was demolished to create the expansive public space.
The square is flanked by the Rafael Uribe Uribe Palace of Culture, an iconic Gothic-style building designed by Belgian architect Agustín Goovaerts.
Local tradition suggests that rubbing the bronze sculptures brings good luck, which has resulted in localized shiny discoloration on specific parts of the statues.
The plaza is a central component of the 'Paseo de la Playa' urban renovation project intended to revitalize the downtown core.
Plazuela Nutibara is an urban plaza in downtown Medellín, notable for its significant concentration of sculptures by Colombian artist Fernando Botero. The plaza is anchored by the iconic sculpture 'La Gorda' (The Fat Woman) and serves as a primary access point to the Museo de Antioquia. It functions as a public thoroughfare connecting the historical and cultural district of La Candelaria. The square features a prominent bronze sculpture fountain and is framed by colonial-style architecture contrasting with modern municipal buildings. As of June 2026, the area maintains its role as a key open-air art gallery in the city center. The plaza is paved with stone and surrounded by low-seating walls that integrate with the surrounding pedestrian traffic. It frequently hosts street performers and local vendors, reflecting the daily pace of the Medellín city center.
Position yourself at the base of the central fountain for a wide-angle shot capturing the sculptures with the Palace of Culture in the background.
Keep your belongings secure and in sight, as this is a high-traffic urban center prone to opportunistic pickpocketing.
Combine your visit with a trip to the adjacent Museo de Antioquia to view the indoor collections of Botero and Pedro Nel Gómez.
Stay for the evening light to see the sculptures illuminated against the backdrop of the Palace of Culture.
Avoid lingering in the immediate peripheral streets of La Candelaria after dark. Do not purchase 'souvenir' coins or trinkets from unverified street vendors.
Avoid climbing or sitting on the bronze sculptures, as this is discouraged by local security to prevent damage to the artwork.
