Standing in a reflective pool is a giant metal flower sculpture, whose petals open and close to represent the daily movements of a real flower.
Gaze in wonder as the Floralis Genérica flower sculpture glistens in the Buenos Aires sunshine. Designed and funded by Argentine architect Eduardo Catalano, the Floralis Genérica is a celebration of all flowers and the rebirth of hope. Visit at different times of the day to see the petals in their open and closed positions. Admire views of this 75-feet (23-meter) tall sculpture from different angles while walking around the lawns of the surrounding park.
The enormous aluminum and steel sculpture stands in the center of a reflective pool at the highest point of the sloping Plaza de las Naciones Unidas. Its six petals blossom at 8 a.m. and close at midnight each day to mimic the actions of a living flower. With its petals open, the sculpture expands to a width of 105 feet (32 meters) and when closed it is 52-feet (16 meters) wide.
A pathway encircles the sculpture, allowing you to get up close and see the four stamen visible when it is in its open position. Watch as trees, residential towers and the adjacent Facultad de Derecho university building reflect in the huge petals. Bright red lights give the flower a warm aura at nighttime. Sit and observe the artistic landmark from one of the park’s many benches or lay down on the grassy lawns.
Located in the Recoleta neighborhood, the sculpture is close to bus stops and the Facultad de Derecho metro station. Free parking is available on the streets that surround Plaza de las Naciones Unidas. Some nearby attractions are the National Museum of Fine Arts and Plaza Francia, which hosts a weekend arts and crafts market.
Floralis Genérica is a free attraction and you can visit it every day of the year. The flower’s petals stay in the open position all day long on four select days. These are May Revolution Day, Spring Day, Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve.
