Monumento Solarius, Modern sculpture in Santa Maria, Brazil
Monumento Solarius is a modern sculpture in Santa Maria that depicts a human figure with horn-like extensions made from metal. The work stands near the BR-040 highway where it serves as a recognizable roadside landmark.
This sculpture was presented to Brazil as a gift from the French government in 1967. The monument arrived during a period of rapid urban growth and modernization across the country.
Local residents call this sculpture 'Chifrudo', a nickname rooted in Brazilian humor and the playful way communities relate to public art in their surroundings. The name has become part of how people in the region identify and talk about this landmark.
The sculpture sits directly alongside the BR-040 highway and is easily visible from the road. It is best accessed on foot during a travel pause, particularly when traffic moves more slowly through the area.
The metal structure shows signs of corrosion and weather damage from the tropical climate, creating an appearance shaped by natural forces. Despite this wear, the artwork attracts frequent photographs from travelers who are drawn to its unusual form and roadside location.
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