Santa Claus

Santa Claus is a bronze figure at Eendrachtsplein in Rotterdam that depicts a bearded man holding a conical object and rises about 6 meters (20 feet) tall. The dark patinated surface contrasts against the surrounding facades and immediately draws the eye.

Paul McCarthy created this bronze sculpture in 2001 with the intent to question Christmas symbols critically. After its installation, the figure changed locations several times in Rotterdam as residents and city authorities debated its depiction.

The piece brings contemporary American art perspectives into the Dutch cityscape and shows how public space serves as a platform for dialogue. Passersby often pause to view the monument from different angles and discuss its meaning.

The figure stands freely accessible on a square served by tram lines 7, 20, and 23, making it easy to reach. Visitors can view the object up close and walk around it to grasp its shape fully.

The conical object in the hand of the figure has led viewers to puzzle over the true intent of the artist. Some see a Christmas tree in it, while others recognize a provocative reversal of festive iconography.

Location: Rotterdam

Inception: 2001

Creator: Paul McCarthy

Made from material: bronze

Part of: Beeldenroute Westersingel/Rotterdam, Sleutelwerken

Address: Oude Binnenweg 142-150, 3012 Rotterdam, Nederland

Website: https://bkor.nl/kunstwerken/santa-claus

GPS coordinates: 51.91707,4.47335

Latest update: December 5, 2025 22:23