Things to Do in Medellín: Plaza San Antonio and the Bird of Peace
If you're planning a trip to Medellín and want to understand the city's heart and history in one place, put Plaza San Antonio on your list. It's one of the largest and most meaningful squares in the city — home to a powerful story of tragedy, resilience and peace, told through two sculptures by Fernando Botero. And it's a perfect stop on a MOVE electric bike tour through the historic center.
The story of the Bird of Peace
In 1995, a bomb hidden beneath one of Botero's bird sculptures exploded during a public concert in this square, taking many lives. Instead of removing the damaged sculpture, the artist Fernando Botero asked that it remain exactly where it stood, as a memorial. He then created and donated an identical new bird to be placed right beside it — the "Bird of Peace." Today the two birds stand side by side: one torn apart by violence, the other whole, together symbolizing Medellín's transformation from its painful past to a city of hope. It's one of the most moving things you can see in Medellín.
Plaza San Antonio today
Far from a somber place, Plaza San Antonio is full of life. Locals cross it every day, street vendors sell flowers and snacks, musicians play, and the surrounding streets buzz with the energy of downtown Medellín. Stopping here is a chance to feel the real rhythm of the city and meet the paisas who make it special.
Why see it by electric bike
Plaza San Antonio sits in the busy historic center, and an electric bike is the easiest, most enjoyable way to reach it and connect it with Medellín's other downtown landmarks. With MOVE, a local guide shares the real story behind the birds and the city's transformation — context you simply can't get on your own. Every tour is 100% private, at your own pace. No groups, no rush, no effort.
What to see nearby
- The two Botero birds: the damaged one and the Bird of Peace
- The lively square and its flower and street vendors
- Plaza Botero and its 23 Botero sculptures, a short ride away
- The Palacio de la Cultura and the Museo de Antioquia
Tips for your visit
- Best time: Daytime, when the square is lively and safe for photos.
- What to bring: Camera, water and an open mind for the city's history.
- Recommended tour: Our Urban Tour or Alternative Paisa Tour through downtown Medellín.
Book your Medellín experience with MOVE City Tour: +57 350 4502929
Frequently asked questions
Q: What are the must-see things to do in Medellín?
A: Top experiences include Plaza San Antonio and Botero's Bird of Peace, Plaza Botero, Comuna 13, Pueblito Paisa and the city's authentic neighborhoods — many of which can be combined on a single electric bike tour.
Q: What is the Bird of Peace in Medellín?
A: It's a Botero sculpture in Plaza San Antonio. After a 1995 bombing destroyed one of his birds, Botero left the damaged sculpture as a memorial and donated an identical new one beside it, symbolizing peace and the city's resilience.
Q: Is Medellín worth visiting?
A: Absolutely. Medellín blends a powerful history of transformation with vibrant culture, great weather, friendly locals and unique sights — best experienced with a local guide who can share the stories behind each place.
Q: Is it safe to visit downtown Medellín?
A: Downtown is busy and full of life. Visiting with a local guide, for example on a private electric bike tour, lets you explore the main sights comfortably and safely while learning their history.
Book your Medellín experience with MOVE City Tour: +57 350 4502929
