
Monumento a Esthercita Forero Barranquilla
Barranquilla honors its musical daughters with statues of global superstar Shakira and beloved local legend Esthercita Forero.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos

Monumento a Esthercita Forero Barranquilla
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Barranquilla honors its musical daughters with statues of global superstar Shakira and beloved local legend Esthercita Forero.
"A must-see for music fans, with a vibrant tribute to Shakira and a nod to local legend Esthercita Forero."

📸 Photo Ops Galore
Get your iconic shots with both the Shakira and Esthercita Forero statues. Be patient for the Shakira statue!
🎶 Appreciate Local Music
Learn about Esthercita Forero, 'La Novia de Barranquilla,' and her musical legacy.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Esthercita Forero Statue
Plaza de Esthercita Forero, Carrera Veinte de Julio (43) and Calle 74
A tribute to 'La Novia de Barranquilla,' this statue honors a legendary Colombian singer and composer.

Shakira Statue
Gran Malecón del Río
A massive bronze statue of global superstar Shakira dancing, a must-see for fans and a popular photo spot.
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Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Local Icon
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Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📸 Photo Ops Galore
Get your iconic shots with both the Shakira and Esthercita Forero statues. Be patient for the Shakira statue!
🎶 Appreciate Local Music
Learn about Esthercita Forero, 'La Novia de Barranquilla,' and her musical legacy.
📍 Location, Location!
The Shakira statue is on the Gran Malecón. Esthercita's is in a plaza on Carrera 43 and Calle 74.
⏳ Beat the Rush
The Shakira statue can have long queues. Visit early or late to avoid the longest waits.
Tips
from all over the internet
📸 Photo Ops Galore
Get your iconic shots with both the Shakira and Esthercita Forero statues. Be patient for the Shakira statue!
🎶 Appreciate Local Music
Learn about Esthercita Forero, 'La Novia de Barranquilla,' and her musical legacy.
📍 Location, Location!
The Shakira statue is on the Gran Malecón. Esthercita's is in a plaza on Carrera 43 and Calle 74.
⏳ Beat the Rush
The Shakira statue can have long queues. Visit early or late to avoid the longest waits.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors appreciate the tributes to both Shakira and the beloved local icon Esthercita Forero. While the Shakira statue is a major draw, some note long lines for photos. The Esthercita Forero monument is a more peaceful experience, though some wish for more information about her legacy.
"It is not such an amazing monument but Estercita Forero means a lot to people from Barranquilla she was "La novia de Barranquilla"."
Alejandra Ortiz
"Linda"
Maria Clara Gonzalez Henao
"At the Shakira statue there was a 2-hour line, but not here 😄 I love Esther Forero's music! Unfortunately there is no plaque and no information about this statue or The Bride of Barranquilla :("
Dennis Kailing
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Shakira statue is located on the Gran Malecón del Río. You can reach it by taxi, ride-sharing services, or local buses heading towards the Malecón area. Many visitors find it convenient to combine a visit with exploring the riverside promenade.
The statue honoring Esthercita Forero, 'La Novia de Barranquilla,' is situated in the Plaza de Esthercita Forero, at the intersection of Carrera Veinte de Julio (43) and Calle 74. It's a significant landmark in the city.
Yes, both statues are within Barranquilla and accessible by taxi or ride-sharing. The Gran Malecón is a popular tourist area, and the Plaza de Esthercita Forero is in a well-known part of the city. Plan for short travel times between them.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there are no tickets required to view or take photos with the Shakira statue. It's a public monument located on the Gran Malecón, which is generally accessible. However, be prepared for potential crowds.
Similar to the Shakira statue, there is no admission fee for the Esthercita Forero monument. It's located in a public plaza, allowing everyone to appreciate the tribute to this important Colombian artist.
The Gran Malecón, where the Shakira statue is located, is generally open from morning until late evening. The Plaza de Esthercita Forero is also a public space, accessible during daylight hours and into the evening. It's best to check local listings for specific park hours if you plan to visit very early or late.
📸 📸 Photography
To get a clear shot without too many people, try visiting early in the morning or later in the evening. Be patient, as lines can form, especially during peak tourist seasons. Consider creative angles to capture the statue's grandeur.
The statue itself is the main focal point. You can get good shots from various angles in the plaza. While there isn't a designated 'photo spot' like at the Shakira statue, the plaza offers a pleasant backdrop for capturing the essence of this tribute.
Drone usage is often restricted in public urban areas due to privacy and safety regulations. It's advisable to check with local authorities or the Barranquilla tourism board before attempting to fly a drone near either statue.
🎫 🎶 Music & Culture
Esthercita Forero, known as 'La Novia de Barranquilla' (The Bride of Barranquilla), was a celebrated Colombian singer and composer. She was a cultural ambassador for Colombian music, receiving numerous accolades for her contributions. Her statue is a testament to her beloved status in the city.
Esthercita Forero was known for her vibrant cumbia and porro music, deeply rooted in the Caribbean coast of Colombia. Her songs often celebrated Barranquilla and its culture, making her a cherished figure.
Unfortunately, some visitors have noted a lack of informational plaques at the Esthercita Forero monument, making it difficult to learn about her directly at the site. It's recommended to research her life and music beforehand to fully appreciate the tribute.
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👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🎶 Music Enthusiasts
Deep Dives
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The Two Icons: Shakira vs. Esthercita Forero
In contrast, the Esthercita Forero statue honors a foundational figure in Colombian music. Known as 'La Novia de Barranquilla,' Esthercita Forero was a beloved singer and composer whose career spanned decades, earning her national and international recognition. Her music, often featuring cumbia and porro rhythms, is deeply ingrained in the cultural fabric of Barranquilla. While the Esthercita Forero monument may be less flashy, it represents a profound connection to the city's musical heritage and the enduring love for its local artists.
Navigating the Gran Malecón
When visiting the Shakira statue on the Gran Malecón, be prepared for a lively atmosphere. The area can get quite busy, especially on weekends and holidays. While the statue is a primary draw, take time to explore the rest of the Malecón. You might find food vendors, green spaces, and other points of interest that offer a more relaxed experience away from the immediate vicinity of the statue. The sheer scale of the Malecón means there's space for everyone, even when crowds gather for photos.




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