Rotonda del Mar (Rotunda by the Sea), Puerto Vallarta
The Rotunda by the Sea is one of Puerto Vallarta鈥檚 most imaginative and interactive art installations, located along the vibrant Boardwalk. Created by Guadalajara-born artist Alejandro Colunga, this surreal circle of eight bronze thrones was inaugurated on December 30, 1996, and quickly became a local favorite. Each towering chair is adorned with fantastical marine elements鈥攐ctopuses, diver helmets, and telescopic eyes鈥攂lending human features with whimsical sea life. Unlike traditional sculptures meant only for viewing, these dreamlike thrones were designed to be touched, climbed on, and photographed, encouraging a playful connection between art and public life.
Colunga鈥檚 work carries a distinctive style, combining surrealism with a hint of the arcane. While the Rotunda is playful on the surface, many visitors note its underlying, almost Lovecraftian atmosphere, as if the strange thrones were awaiting a secret gathering to awaken an ancient sea god. The chairs are placed around a stone circle right beside the ocean, allowing the waves to provide an ever-changing soundtrack to this surreal open-air installation. Over time, the seats have been polished to a golden sheen where countless hands have touched them, a testament to their enduring appeal and the artist鈥檚 intent for the public to engage with his fantastical creations.
Visiting the Rotunda by the Sea offers more than just a photo opportunity; it鈥檚 an experience of stepping into a world where imagination and marine mythology intertwine. As the sun sets over Banderas Bay, the eerie silhouettes of the thrones against the glowing sky create an unforgettable scene. Whether you find them magical, unsettling, or a bit of both, the Rotunda鈥檚 surreal charm is an attractive part of any stroll along Puerto Vallarta鈥檚 iconic waterfront.
Colunga鈥檚 work carries a distinctive style, combining surrealism with a hint of the arcane. While the Rotunda is playful on the surface, many visitors note its underlying, almost Lovecraftian atmosphere, as if the strange thrones were awaiting a secret gathering to awaken an ancient sea god. The chairs are placed around a stone circle right beside the ocean, allowing the waves to provide an ever-changing soundtrack to this surreal open-air installation. Over time, the seats have been polished to a golden sheen where countless hands have touched them, a testament to their enduring appeal and the artist鈥檚 intent for the public to engage with his fantastical creations.
Visiting the Rotunda by the Sea offers more than just a photo opportunity; it鈥檚 an experience of stepping into a world where imagination and marine mythology intertwine. As the sun sets over Banderas Bay, the eerie silhouettes of the thrones against the glowing sky create an unforgettable scene. Whether you find them magical, unsettling, or a bit of both, the Rotunda鈥檚 surreal charm is an attractive part of any stroll along Puerto Vallarta鈥檚 iconic waterfront.
Want to visit this sight? Check out these Self-Guided Walking Tours in Puerto Vallarta. Alternatively, you can download the mobile app "黑料吃瓜网: Walks in 1K+ Cities" from Apple App Store or Google Play Store. The app turns your mobile device to a personal tour guide and it works offline, so no data plan is needed when traveling abroad.
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Rotonda del Mar (Rotunda by the Sea) on Map
Sight Name: Rotonda del Mar (Rotunda by the Sea)
Sight Location: Puerto Vallarta, Mexico (See walking tours in Puerto Vallarta)
Sight Type: Statue/Public Art
Guide(s) Containing This Sight:
Sight Location: Puerto Vallarta, Mexico (See walking tours in Puerto Vallarta)
Sight Type: Statue/Public Art
Guide(s) Containing This Sight:
Walking Tours in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico
Create Your Own Walk in Puerto Vallarta
Creating your own self-guided walk in Puerto Vallarta is easy and fun. Choose the city attractions that you want to see and a walk route map will be created just for you. You can even set your hotel as the start point of the walk.
Puerto Vallarta Introduction Walking Tour
Puerto Vallarta is defined by the natural charm of its beaches embraced by the Sierra Madre mountains; the essence of its culture, gastronomy and traditions; and the warmth and hospitality of being welcomed like a friend. This magical destination has an authentic Mexican taste and spirit. ***PH***
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.3 Km or 1.4 Miles
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.3 Km or 1.4 Miles