The original bronze bird sculpture was donated by Fernando Botero to the city in 1995.
A bomb hidden at the base of the sculpture killed 23 people during a music festival in 1995.
Botero specifically requested that the damaged sculpture remain in the park as a symbol of peace and resilience.
The park underwent a significant urban renovation project in the early 2000s to improve pedestrian flow in the downtown area.
Parque de San Antonio is centrally located in Medellín's La Candelaria district and is best known for housing two large bronze sculptures by Fernando Botero. These sculptures, titled El Pájaro (The Bird), serve as a memorial following a 1995 terrorist bombing that targeted the park; the damaged original statue remains on display beside a new, intact version. The park functions as a frequent venue for local street food vendors selling traditional Antioquian snacks. It serves as a major urban hub connecting the downtown commercial area with local transit corridors. The space is characterized by paved plazas and concrete seating areas rather than traditional park greenery.
Between the two bird sculptures to capture the contrast between the damaged original and the restored monument.
Visit during daylight hours only, as the surrounding downtown area becomes less secure after dark.
Keep your phone and camera stowed away when not actively using them.
Try local snacks like buñuelos or empanadas from the established street food vendors within the park boundaries.
Do not visit the area late at night or linger in the adjacent quiet side streets after the park activity dies down.
Maintain a respectful demeanor near the memorials; casual but modest clothing is standard for downtown Medellín.
