The Chicharro Sculpture, Bronze fish sculpture in Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Spain
The Chicharro Sculpture depicts a mackerel fish leaping from a wave base, with a substantial weight that gives it presence and stability. It stands on a basalt foundation in Chicharro Square, where it serves as a focal point in the public space.
An original version was created in 1979 but was later stolen and eventually found in Valencia, narrowly escaping being melted down. The current bronze sculpture was made in 2003 and preserves key design elements from its predecessor.
The sculpture embodies the deep relationship between Santa Cruz de Tenerife residents and fishing traditions, which explains their nickname Chicharreros. This maritime connection remains central to how people understand their community today.
The sculpture sits in a public square that is easily accessible and walkable from different parts of the city center. It works well as a casual meeting spot or quick visit, since the location is central and offers clear views of the work from various angles.
The current work intentionally incorporates design elements from the stolen original version, particularly the distinctive wave from which the fish appears to leap. This connection to its predecessor creates a bridge between what was lost and what stands today.
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