Birth of the New World

Birth of the New World is a bronze sculpture in Arecibo, Puerto Rico, depicting a man standing on the prow of a ship and reaching a total height of about 360 feet (110 meters). The entire figure is made of thousands of individual bronze panels mounted on a steel framework that gives the structure its enormous weight.

The sculpture was completed in 2016 to mark the first voyage of European sailors to this region more than five centuries earlier. The artist searched for a suitable site for years before the coast of Arecibo was finally chosen as the permanent location.

The monument generates discussions about colonization and historical perspectives, while serving as a gathering point for community events throughout the year.

The statue stands on the Atlantic coast west of San Juan and can be reached by car along the main northern coastal road. A parking area on site provides access to the base of the monument, where information panels describe the construction method and materials used.

The sculpture survived a major hurricane in 2017, demonstrating the strength of its foundation on the rocky coast. It is considered the tallest monument of its kind on the entire North American continent, surpassing many other well-known colossal statues.

Location: Arecibo

Inception: 2016

Creator: Zurab Tsereteli

Official opening: 2016

Height: 110 m

Made from material: bronze, steel

GPS coordinates: 18.49010,-66.62670

Latest update: December 17, 2025 09:55