Spain is full of surprises, and many of its treasures remain hidden from the eyes of mass tourism. Every region offers something truly special, reflecting local color and centuries-old traditions. The city of Murcia is no exception. Strolling through its center, you can admire historic architecture, but the most unusual sight awaits curious visitors by the water. Rising straight out of the surface of the Segura River is a massive metal creature whose appearance inspires both awe and fascination. This is not some ancient monster, but one of the country’s most original works of contemporary art.
This monument is closely linked to one of the region’s loudest and most distinctive festivals – the ‘Burial of the Sardine’ (Entierro de la Sardina). With its pagan roots, the festival marks the farewell to Carnival excesses and the beginning of Lent. The culmination of the celebration is the burning of a giant fish figure, symbolizing the triumph of light over darkness and renewal. The humorous and grotesque spirit of this spectacle inspired the creation of a permanent monument, reminding locals and visitors year-round of their unique tradition.
The idea to immortalize the festival’s symbol in bronze came from the local community group “Agrupación Sardinera”. Architect Miguel Llamas brought it to life in 2007, giving rise to the colossal sculpture: a 10-ton, 25-meter-tall masterpiece depicting a fish leaping out of the river. Its location was carefully chosen—between the Miguel Caballero footbridge and the Bridge of Dangers (Puente de los Peligros), where thousands of people see it every day. The goal was not just a statue, but a dynamic work that interacts with its surroundings.
However, the path to realizing the project was far from smooth. Environmental organizations immediately raised serious concerns after the installation. They feared the massive base could disrupt the river’s ecosystem, cause erosion, and negatively affect water flow. Prolonged debates and studies followed. Experts ultimately concluded the impact on the riverbed would be minimal, and the project was finally approved. But the bronze fish’s challenges were far from over.
The main “feature” of the sculpture was meant to be a powerful fountain spouting from the fish’s mouth. Unfortunately, the complex hydraulic system proved short-lived. Not long after its launch, it broke down, and for more than a decade the monument fell silent. It remained standing over the river, but without its signature flourish, becoming a static and somewhat melancholy reminder of the grand idea behind it. Locals got used to its quiet presence, and it seemed the fountain might never flow again.
The turning point came in 2023. City authorities decided to completely restore the mechanism. Complex technical work was carried out to rebuild the water supply system. And finally, after more than ten years of silence, the fish “came to life” again. Today, in 2025, it once again delights everyone with its spectacular fountain, which looks especially stunning in the sunlight and under the evening lights. The monument has reclaimed its status as one of the main attractions in Murcia, becoming a symbol of revival and loyalty to tradition.
