Monument to Picasso

Monument to Picasso gives its name to one of Málaga's most unexpected green spaces — the Jardines de Picasso. The gardens sit along the extension of the Alameda, next to the Puente de las Américas, sandwiched between Avenida de Andalucía and Avenida de la Aurora, just a short walk from the city centre and the mouth of the Guadalmedina river.

What will you find inside the park?

The layout is built around a symmetrical network of paths that, seen from above, fan out like flower petals from a central axis. Beneath a canopy of enormous ficus trees stands a cubist sculpture dedicated to Pablo Picasso, created by Málaga-born artist Miguel Ortiz Berrocal and titled "Siéxtasis." Its angular, interlocking planes echo the visual language of Picasso's own painting, and the piece rewards walking all the way around it to take in the full composition. Benches shaded by the trees and small fountains scattered along the paths make it an easy spot to slow down.

Why was this park created?

The gardens opened in 1981, exactly one hundred years after Pablo Picasso's birth in Málaga in 1881. Rather than mark the anniversary with a plaque or a bust alone, the city chose to dedicate an entire park with a purpose-built sculpture — a gesture that says a lot about how closely Málaga ties its identity to its most famous native son.

How do you get there?

The gardens sit on major city thoroughfares, so getting there is straightforward. On foot from the centre (Plaza de la Constitución or the cathedral), it's roughly a 15–20 minute walk along the Alameda Principal toward the bridge. By bus, the stops along Avenida de Andalucía are the most convenient — several city lines connect the centre with the neighbourhoods on the other side of the river. Street parking nearby can be tight during peak hours, so walking or public transport is the more reliable option.

When is the best time to visit?

The park is open year-round, free of charge, with no ticket required. Early morning or late afternoon are the most pleasant times to visit, since the sun isn't at its highest — the ficus trees provide the most shade then, keeping temperatures comfortable even in summer. Spring and autumn offer the most comfortable conditions for a longer stroll, though the park works well as a quiet break at any point during a city visit.

Who is this stop for?

It's a natural addition for anyone who has already seen the Museo Picasso Málaga and the artist's birthplace on Plaza de la Merced and wants a quieter, less obvious tribute to the painter. Locals use the park too, for walks or simply to relax — it doesn't feel overrun with tourists, which adds to its appeal.

Frequently asked questions

Is entry to Jardines de Picasso free? Yes, the park is open to the public at no cost, every day, with no ticket requirements.

Who created the sculpture dedicated to Picasso? The sculpture "Siéxtasis" was created by Málaga-born artist Miguel Ortiz Berrocal, known for his geometric, cubist-inspired forms.

Is this the same as the Picasso statue on Plaza de la Merced? No — they're two separate works. Plaza de la Merced has a bronze figure of Picasso seated on a bench, while Jardines de Picasso is a park featuring a distinct cubist sculpture honouring the same artist.

How much time should you set aside? Walking through the park and viewing the sculpture usually takes 20–30 minutes, though the shaded setting invites a longer rest.