- TURY.CLUB
- Tourist Objects
- Portugal
- Oporto town
- Horse sculptures on Praça D. João I
The horse sculptures on Praça D. João I in Porto are among the most recognizable examples of modern monumental art in the city’s public space. These two bronze statues, created by Portuguese sculptor João Salgado in the 1980s, have become an integral part of the square’s visual identity.
Depicting two horses in dynamic motion, the sculptures embody strength, freedom, and energy. Executed in an expressive style, they emphasize anatomical precision and sculptural intensity. Placed prominently in the open space of the square, they interact with the surrounding architecture and the pulse of urban life.
Although the works have no official title, they are commonly referred to as “The Horses” or “The Bronze Horses” by locals. Over the years, they have become a popular meeting point, a frequent subject of photography, and a symbol of Porto’s contemporary sculptural heritage. The composition successfully integrates artistic expression with the functional character of the square, reinforcing its role as a cultural and civic focal point of the city.
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