Fibonacci Sequence 1–55, Light sculpture on power plant chimney in IX District, Turku, Finland.
Fibonacci Sequence 1-55 is a neon light artwork on an industrial chimney in Turku. The red-orange numbers display the mathematical sequence across approximately 35 meters of height on a 100-meter tall stack, with each digit following the pattern where every number equals the sum of the two before it.
The artwork was created by Italian artist Mario Merz in 1994 as the first piece in the Turku - European Sculpture City initiative. This project aimed to transform the city through contemporary artworks from international artists and establish Turku as a cultural destination.
The numerical sequence represents a pattern that appears throughout nature, where each number equals the sum of the two before it. Visitors often discover this principle reflected in plant growth, shells, and other natural forms around them.
The installation remains lit throughout the year thanks to ongoing maintenance by the local energy company. The numbers are best viewed at dusk or night when the red neon glows most vividly against the dark sky.
This is one of the largest public works ever created by artist Mario Merz, who was known for combining found and industrial materials in his art. The piece transforms an abstract mathematical concept into glowing red light, bridging science and art in a way that catches visitors by surprise.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
