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Floralis Generica: A Steel Flower in Buenos Aires

A giant steel flower in Buenos Aires that opens and closes its petals, symbolizing hope and renewal in the heart of the city.

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The Floralis Generica is a massive, steel and aluminum sculpture of a flower in Buenos Aires, Argentina. Designed by architect Eduardo Catalano, it's a modern landmark that opens its petals every morning and closes them at night, creating a unique spectacle.

A brief summary to Floralis Generica

  • Av. Pres. Figueroa Alcorta 2301, Buenos Aires, Recoleta, Comuna 2, Buenos Aires, C1425, AR
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Local tips

  • Visit in the morning to see the flower fully open, or in the evening to watch it close.
  • Check the weather forecast, as the flower closes during strong winds.
  • Bring a camera to capture the unique spectacle of the flower's mechanical movements.
  • Enjoy a picnic in the surrounding Plaza de las Naciones Unidas for a relaxing afternoon.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From the city center (e.g., Plaza de Mayo), take the D subway line (Green Line) to Plaza Italia station. From there, it's approximately a 20-minute walk north along Av. Sarmiento, passing the Buenos Aires Zoo and the Japanese Garden. The Floralis Generica will be visible on your left in Plaza de las Naciones Unidas. A SUBE card is required for public transport; a single journey costs around ARS 60-80.

  • Taxi/Ride-share

    From a central location like the Obelisco, a taxi or ride-share to Floralis Generica will take approximately 15-20 minutes, depending on traffic. The ride will cost approximately ARS 1500-2000. Ask the driver to take you to Plaza de las Naciones Unidas on Av. Pres. Figueroa Alcorta.

  • Walking

    If you are already in the Recoleta neighborhood, walking to the Floralis Generica is a pleasant option. From the Recoleta Cemetery, head north along Av. Pueyrredón, then turn left onto Av. del Libertador. Continue west until you reach Plaza de las Naciones Unidas. The walk is approximately 30-40 minutes and offers scenic views of the city.

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Discover more about Floralis Generica

The Floralis Generica is a captivating symbol of Buenos Aires, a city known for its blend of European elegance and South American vibrancy. This colossal sculpture, a gift to the city by its creator Eduardo Catalano, stands as a testament to the fusion of art and engineering. Located in Plaza de las Naciones Unidas, the Floralis Generica is more than just a static monument; it's a dynamic artwork that interacts with its environment. Crafted from stainless steel and aluminum, the flower's six petals are designed to open each morning, revealing its interior, and close again at night or when strong winds blow. This mechanical ballet is a sight to behold, drawing crowds who gather to witness the daily bloom and retreat. The sculpture also features a sophisticated lighting system that illuminates it at night, casting a soft glow over the surrounding park. Beyond its aesthetic appeal, the Floralis Generica holds symbolic weight. Catalano intended the flower to represent hope and renewal, a fitting emblem for a city that has weathered its share of challenges. Its location in a public square underscores its accessibility and its role as a shared space for the community. The sculpture is surrounded by a reflecting pool, which not only enhances its visual impact but also serves as a mirror, reflecting the sky and the changing light, creating a serene atmosphere. While Catalano originally envisioned the flower blooming fully on four special nights (May 25, September 21, and December 24 and 31), technical difficulties have sometimes impacted the full operation of the opening and closing mechanism. Nevertheless, the Floralis Generica remains a beloved landmark, a place for contemplation, and a reminder of the beauty that can arise from the intersection of art and technology.

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