Velký Fibonacci – a mathematical sculpture in the heart of Zlín

Velký Fibonacci (Great Fibonacci) is one of the most recognizable outdoor sculptures in Zlín – a steel structure several meters tall standing in the lower part of náměstí T. G. Masaryka, catching the attention of both locals and visitors with its geometric form. The work references the Fibonacci sequence and the golden ratio, a proportion that has fascinated mathematicians, architects and artists for centuries.

Who created Velký Fibonacci?

The sculpture was designed by Rudolf Valenta, a Czech artist associated with geometric constructivism. His work is built from simple, repeating geometric forms arranged to express mathematical patterns – in this case the numerical sequence in which each term equals the sum of the two preceding ones. The project of installing the structure in Zlín's public space was developed by architects Pavel Chládek and Pavel Hošek.

What does it look like and what is it made of?

The structure stands roughly 6 meters tall and is welded from thin-walled steel profiles finished with a protective coating. Some elements are clad in polished, stainless sheet metal, which makes the sculpture glint in the light and change appearance depending on the time of day and viewing angle. This combination of materials gives the large form an industrial yet airy character – despite its size, the structure feels open and dynamic rather than heavy.

What is the history of this sculpture?

The original version of the work dates back to 1984, when it was installed in public space in Gundelfingen, Germany. Decades later, the concept was brought to Zlín, where a local realization of the sculpture was built in 2013–2014, commissioned by the city of Zlín. Notably, the original structure was damaged after several seasons outdoors and was subsequently placed in the collection of the State Regional Archive in Zlín – a reminder of how demanding large-format outdoor installations can be to maintain under real weather conditions.

Where exactly is Velký Fibonacci located?

The sculpture stands in the lower part of náměstí T. G. Masaryka in Zlín, one of the city's central public spaces, known for the functionalist architecture linked to the history of the Baťa shoe company. Its location in a prominent part of the city has made Velký Fibonacci a natural landmark and meeting point, frequently used as a photo backdrop as well.

Why is it worth seeing?

Velký Fibonacci is a rare example of public art that translates an abstract mathematical concept – the golden ratio and the Fibonacci sequence – into an accessible spatial form. For visitors to Zlín, it is not only a striking photo opportunity but also an invitation to reflect on how mathematics runs through art and urban design in a city itself known for its carefully planned, functionalist layout.

Frequently asked questions

Who designed the Velký Fibonacci sculpture? It was designed by Rudolf Valenta, with the installation concept for Zlín developed by architects Pavel Chládek and Pavel Hošek.

How tall is the structure? It stands about 6 meters tall and is welded from steel profiles, with some elements finished in polished, reflective stainless steel.

When did the sculpture come to Zlín? The original version was installed in 1984 in Gundelfingen, Germany; the Zlín version was realized in 2013–2014.

Where exactly does it stand? In the lower part of náměstí T. G. Masaryka in Zlín, in the city's central area.

What does the form of the sculpture symbolize? It references the Fibonacci sequence and the golden ratio – mathematical proportions found throughout nature, art and architecture.