Background

Monumento al Ovejero: A Tribute to the Shepherd

A bronze tribute to Patagonia's sheep farming heritage, the Monumento al Ovejero honors the region's rural traditions and hardworking shepherds.

4.7

The Monumento al Ovejero (Shepherd Monument) in Punta Arenas is a striking sculpture that honors the region's sheep farming heritage. Featuring life-size bronze figures of a shepherd, his dogs, and a flock of sheep, it's a tribute to the workers who shaped the Patagonian landscape and economy.

A brief summary to Monumento al Ovejero

Local tips

  • Visit during the summer months (December to February) for pleasant weather and the chance to see locals enjoying the surrounding park.
  • Take a stroll along Avenida Bulnes to see other monuments and learn about the history of Punta Arenas.
  • Combine your visit with a trip to the nearby Cementerio Municipal, known for its elaborate mausoleums.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Walking

    The Monumento al Ovejero is located on Avenida Bulnes, a main thoroughfare in Punta Arenas. From Plaza Muñoz Gamero in the city center, walk north along Calle Magallanes, then turn right onto Avenida Bulnes. Continue for about 25 minutes; the monument will be on your right. There are sidewalks along the route.

  • Public Transport

    Several local buses run along Avenida Bulnes. Check local bus routes and schedules to find the most convenient option from your location. Get off at a stop near the intersection of Avenida Bulnes and Calle José Nogueira; the monument is a short walk away.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available in Punta Arenas. A short taxi ride from the city center to the Monumento al Ovejero will cost approximately CLP 760. Agree on the fare with the driver before starting your journey.

Unlock the Best of Monumento al Ovejero

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about Monumento al Ovejero

The Monumento al Ovejero, located on Avenida Bulnes in Punta Arenas, stands as a powerful symbol of the region's rich sheep farming history. Inaugurated in 1944, the monument was conceived by General Ramón Cañas Montalva and funded by Francisco Campos Torreblanca. The original sculpture, crafted from granite, was later donated to the city of Coyhaique, and in 1962, it was replaced by the current bronze sculpture to ensure its longevity. The monument features twelve life-size figures, depicting a shepherd braving the Patagonian winds with his horse and sheepdogs, guiding a flock of sheep. The sculptor, Germán Montero Carvallo, reportedly drew inspiration from the verses of local poet José Grimaldi, who captured the essence of the Patagonian shepherd in his work. The monument is often seen as a symbol of national pride, representing the hard work and resilience of the rural workers who contributed to the region's thriving livestock industry. Visitors can admire the intricate details of the sculpture, from the shepherd's weathered clothing to the sheep's woolly coats. The monument is set in a park-like environment, offering a pleasant space for a stroll or a picnic. In winter, the snow-covered monument evokes the harsh conditions faced by the shepherds, while in summer, the surrounding lawns are a popular spot for locals and tourists alike.

Popular Experiences near Monumento al Ovejero

Popular Hotels near Monumento al Ovejero

Select Currency