In the centre of Gothenburg’s main square stands the bronze figure of Poseidon. This statue, which can’t be missed as you make your way down Avenyn towards the Götaplatsen (Gota Square), watches over some of the city’s busiest and most important buildings. Admire this 7-metre (23-foot) tall statue that sits on top of a fountain and join the crowds of locals and visitors who come to admire one of the city’s most prominent landmarks.
Finished in 1931, the statue remains one of the most important achievements of Swedish sculptor Carl Milles. The figure of Poseidon is an appropriate icon for a city with a long maritime history. Poseidon is the Greek God of the Sea and Gothenburg’s sailors would pray to him for plentiful fish and safe waters. Milles portrays Poseidon as larger than life and hefting a large fish and a shell towards the sky, as if to demonstrate his power over the seas.
This statue is just one of many bold fountain statues that Milles is well known for. After revealing Gothenburg’s statue, he was commissioned for work around the world, including spending 20 years in America designing water features. See one of his original masterpieces that kick-started a prolific career.
Inspect the fountain basin and notice the pattern of carved marine animals. Within the basin, six sculptures fitted with jets direct water at Poseidon’s powerful chest.
Behind the fountain, sit on the steps of the Art Museum and enjoy the spectacular view of Avenyn and the surrounding buildings around Gothenburg’s main square. Delight in the neoclassical facades of the Gothenburg Museum of Art, the City Theatre and the Concert Hall as you watch crowds pass by. These three buildings were built around the same time as the statue to celebrate the 300th anniversary of the city.
Visit the square at night for a great photo of the statue, which is brightened by well-placed spotlights.
Get to the Poseidon Statue by tram down Avenyn or on foot from most of Gothenburg’s central attractions.
