Elogio del Horizonte
Monumental concrete sculpture by Chillida, offering unique acoustics and breathtaking panoramic views of the sea.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Golden hour magic
Elogio del Horizonte
Best Time
Golden hour magic

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Monumental concrete sculpture by Chillida, offering unique acoustics and breathtaking panoramic views of the sea.
"A great sunset spot with beautiful views and an interesting acoustic experience inside."
🎯 Stand in the Center
Experience the unique sound amplification of the waves and wind by standing in the sculpture's core.
🌅 Catch the Sunset
The views are spectacular at sunset; bring your camera for unforgettable photos.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Elogio del Horizonte Sculpture
Cerro de Santa Catalina
A monumental concrete sculpture by Eduardo Chillida, offering a unique acoustic experience and stunning ocean views.

Panoramic Views of Gijón
Cerro de Santa Catalina
Enjoy sweeping vistas of the Cantabrian Sea, the city's coastline, and the iconic San Lorenzo beach.

Sunset Spectacle
Cerro de Santa Catalina
Witness a magical sunset over the Atlantic Ocean, painting the sky with vibrant colors.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit for the Best Experience
Understanding the Sculpture's Unique Acoustics
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Stand in the Center
Experience the unique sound amplification of the waves and wind by standing in the sculpture's core.
🌅 Catch the Sunset
The views are spectacular at sunset; bring your camera for unforgettable photos.
🚶♀️ Explore the Hill
The Cerro de Santa Catalina offers more than just the sculpture; enjoy a pleasant walk with historical elements.
🆓 Free Admission
Enjoy this impressive artwork and its surroundings without any entry fee.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Stand in the Center
Experience the unique sound amplification of the waves and wind by standing in the sculpture's core.
🌅 Catch the Sunset
The views are spectacular at sunset; bring your camera for unforgettable photos.
🚶♀️ Explore the Hill
The Cerro de Santa Catalina offers more than just the sculpture; enjoy a pleasant walk with historical elements.
🆓 Free Admission
Enjoy this impressive artwork and its surroundings without any entry fee.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
The walk up to the sculpture involves some inclines, so comfortable footwear is recommended.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the Elogio del Horizonte for its stunning panoramic views, especially at sunset, and the unique acoustic experience within the sculpture. Many appreciate its free access and the pleasant walk up the Cerro de Santa Catalina. Some wish for more information about the artwork on-site.
"Created in 1990 by Eduardo Chillida, this concrete structure is one of the most representative works of modern sculpture. Characterized by geometric shapes and curves, it is designed to honor the horizon, symbolizing the coexistence of humanity and nature while emphasizing the vastness of space and the freedom of thought. Standing on Santa Catalina Hill, facing the Atlantic Ocean, this artwork creates an impressive visual connection between the land, sea, and sky."
Seokjin Ham
"A great sunset spot ! Very beautiful view from the top. The center of the structure amplifies sound, its interesting. It has a sket park just down the alley."
Biswabrata Banerjee
"Such a lovely spot on the coast and great to see on a walk of the area. Just wish the sculpture itself had some information - I learned through google reviews of its design to amplify nearby sounds including the waves! Was really cool to stand inside and experience it. Amazing views"
Abigail Gray
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Elogio del Horizonte is located atop the Cerro de Santa Catalina in Gijón. You can reach it by walking from the city center, following signs towards Cimadevilla or the promenade. It's a pleasant walk, often combined with exploring the old town and the beach.
While there isn't direct parking at the sculpture itself, there are several public parking lots in the vicinity of Gijón's city center and port area. From there, it's a scenic walk up to the hill.
Buses run frequently to Gijón's city center. From there, it's a walkable distance to the Cerro de Santa Catalina. Check local bus routes for the most convenient stops near the Cimadevilla neighborhood.
The paths leading up to the Cerro de Santa Catalina are generally well-maintained, and the sculpture itself is accessible for people with reduced mobility.
Many visitors enjoy walking along the 'Muro' (promenade) and then ascending the hill. This offers beautiful coastal views along the way.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, admission to Elogio del Horizonte and the Cerro de Santa Catalina is completely free. You can visit and enjoy the sculpture and its views at any time.
As an outdoor sculpture, Elogio del Horizonte is accessible 24/7. However, visiting during daylight hours, especially around sunset, is highly recommended for the best experience.
There is no entrance fee for the Cerro de Santa Catalina or the Elogio del Horizonte sculpture. It's a public space for everyone to enjoy.
While technically accessible, visiting at night might be less ideal due to limited lighting and the loss of the panoramic daytime views. The sunset experience is particularly popular.
While official guided tours specifically for the sculpture might be limited, local tourist information centers can provide details on city tours that may include this landmark.
📸 📸 Photography
The 'golden hour' just before sunset offers the most dramatic lighting for photography. However, the sculpture is also striking on a clear day with blue skies.
You can capture wide-angle shots of the sculpture against the sea and sky, close-ups of its texture, and panoramic views of Gijón. Don't forget to photograph people interacting with the sculpture.
Standing inside the sculpture to capture the framed views of the ocean is a popular choice. The surrounding hill also offers excellent vantage points for cityscapes.
Drone regulations can vary, and it's advisable to check local rules and obtain any necessary permits before flying a drone in this area.
For sunset, consider using a tripod for stability, shooting in RAW format for editing flexibility, and experimenting with exposure compensation to capture the dynamic range of light.
🎫 👂 Onsite Experience
The central part of the sculpture is designed to amplify sounds, creating an acoustic effect where you can hear the waves, wind, and even conversations with enhanced clarity.
Created by Eduardo Chillida, it's a monumental concrete sculpture symbolizing the coexistence of humanity and nature, honoring the vastness of the horizon and freedom of thought.
Yes, the Cerro de Santa Catalina itself has historical elements like Roman wall remains and bunkers. The sculpture is also part of a scenic coastal walk.
While there are no dedicated seating areas directly at the sculpture, the surrounding parkland on the hill offers benches and grassy spots to sit and enjoy the views.
Walk around it, stand inside to appreciate the acoustics, and take time to absorb the panoramic views of the sea and city.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Remember to bring comfortable shoes for the walk up, and consider packing snacks and drinks as facilities are limited. The panoramic views are also a great opportunity for kids to learn about geography and the sea. The nearby skate park can be an added bonus for older children.
🚶♀️ Budget Travelers
Combine your visit with a walk along the 'Muro' promenade and explore the charming Cimadevilla neighborhood. Pack a picnic to enjoy the views, saving money on dining out. The accessibility and free entry make it a must-visit for anyone traveling on a budget.
📸 Photographers
Aim for the golden hour around sunset for dramatic lighting and vibrant colors. Experiment with wide-angle lenses to capture the scale of the sculpture and its surroundings, and don't miss the opportunity to shoot from within the sculpture to frame the horizon.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Eduardo Chillida's Vision: The Elogio del Horizonte
The placement on the hill, overlooking the Cantabrian Sea, was crucial to Chillida's concept. The sculpture acts as a frame, drawing the viewer's eye towards the vastness of the ocean and the sky. Its central opening is engineered to amplify natural sounds, creating an immersive experience where the roar of the waves and the whisper of the wind become integral parts of the artwork. This acoustic dimension transforms the sculpture from a static object into a dynamic sensory experience, inviting contemplation on space, nature, and human existence.
Visitors often describe the feeling of standing within the sculpture as profound. The way it channels the sounds of the sea and the wind creates a powerful, almost spiritual connection to the environment. It's a testament to Chillida's ability to merge art, architecture, and nature into a singular, unforgettable encounter.
Exploring the Cerro de Santa Catalina
This elevated position makes it a prime spot for panoramic photography, capturing the sweep of San Lorenzo beach, the old town (Cimadevilla), and the vast expanse of the Atlantic Ocean. It's a popular destination for locals and tourists alike, offering a peaceful escape from the city bustle. The well-maintained paths make it an enjoyable place for a leisurely stroll, a brisk walk, or a dedicated hike, especially when combined with the coastal promenade known as 'El Muro'.
Adjacent to the sculpture, you'll also find a skate park, adding a modern recreational element to the historical and artistic significance of the hill. This blend of art, history, nature, and recreation makes the Cerro de Santa Catalina a multifaceted destination, perfect for a relaxed afternoon of exploration and appreciation.
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