Equestrian statue of Simón Bolívar

The memorial depicts a uniformed rider on horseback with raised sword, wearing a significant military decoration on his chest. The bronze composition rests on a granite and marble base that commands attention at the intersection of two major streets.

The Venezuelan government gifted this statue to the United States in 1959 as an expression of friendship between nations. The memorial honors a military leader whose campaigns shaped the independence of multiple countries across the continent.

The statue depicts a leader revered across the Americas for his role in independence movements. Visitors notice how this memorial at this location highlights connections between different nations and their struggles for freedom.

The memorial stands outdoors in an open location with free access from nearby metro stations. The best time to visit is during daylight and outside rush hours, which allows for easier movement around the sculpture and better photographs.

The artwork was disassembled into five sections for transport, including the rider's head and neck. This decomposition technique allowed the sculpture to travel safely from its creation site to the nation's capital.

Location: Washington, D.C.

Inception: 1959

Creator: Felix de Weldon

Made from material: bronze, granite, marble

GPS coordinates: 38.89313,-77.04203

Latest update: December 12, 2025 09:00