Learn about the cultural impact of Nicaragua’s favorite modern poet and consider the mythological symbolism of this ornate fountain statue.
The Monumento a Rubén Darío is a statue with enormous cultural importance in the heart of Managua. The white structure, which stands in the center of a water feature, depicts national poet Rubén Darío amid a heavenly scene of angelic figures on a boat. Snap photos of this historic statue and learn of its significance.
Rubén Darío is one of Nicaragua’s most iconic figures, having heavily influenced the modernist literary movement at the end of the 19th century. Gaze up at the poet’s robed figure, with his sculpted hand on his heart. It is 20 feet (6.2 meters) tall. Notice the swans that flank both sides of the boat at the base of the monument.
Inspect the charming fountain in which the work of art stands. On the tall base below the statue, read the lines of Spanish from some of his iconic poems. The angelic figures represent the mythological muses of Polymnia, Calliope and Erato. The sculptures of Cupid and Psyche are from the 2nd-century story Metamorphoses.
Note that the statue was built in 1933, before falling into disrepair. Over the years, locals protested against the poor state of the statue of the nation’s favorite son, until the government finally completely refurbished and reopened it in 1998, with financial aid from Texaco Oil.
Visit the monument, which is free and open to the public at all times. Stroll leisurely along the spacious Plaza de la Revolución to see some of the main highlights of Managua.
The Monumento a Rubén Darío is near the Plaza de la Revolución, in the historic center of Managua. It can be found in the northern part of the city, just a few blocks south of Xolotlán Lake, also known as Lake Managua. Visit nearby attractions, such as the Casa de los Pueblos (House of the People), the National Theater of Rubén Darío and the National Museum Palace of Culture.
