The Zulo

The Zulo is a monumental bronze sculpture showing a human figure in a crouched position at the harbor entrance in Cartagena. The work stands about 19 feet tall and weighs approximately two tons, with details visible from multiple viewing angles around the site.

The sculptor Victor Ochoa created and unveiled this memorial in April 2009 to honor victims of past attacks. The work emerged from a desire to remember violent events of recent history.

The crouched figure speaks to human suffering and vulnerability in a way visitors can feel while moving through this public space. The pose invites reflection on difficult topics while overlooking the harbor.

The sculpture sits directly at the harbor edge and is accessible from all sides, allowing visitors to study the bronze details in good light. Early morning or late afternoon visits offer the best viewing conditions when light brings out the surface details.

The extreme body curvature of the figure conveys inner distress through pure physical form rather than symbolic details. Many visitors discover this quiet power only when viewing it from different positions and distances.

Location: Cartagena

Inception: 2009

Official opening: April 4, 2009

Made from material: bronze

GPS coordinates: 37.59754,-0.98620

Latest update: December 12, 2025 07:59