A life‑size bronze statue of John Lennon by Spanish sculptor José Luis Ribas Fernández stands in the Jardines de Méndez Núñez in A Coruña, Spain. Installed in July 2005, this public monument occupies a peaceful corner of the garden and has become a unique landmark for Beatles fans and visitors alike.
Location
The statue is located in the Jardines de Méndez Núñez, Av. Jardines de Méndez Núñez, S/N, 15006 A Coruña, Galicia, Spain. These historic gardens lie between the city’s port and the Cantones district, just a ten-minute walk from the central Plaza de María Pita and within easy reach of Riazor Beach.
History of the Statue
- Date of unveiling: July 5, 2005
- Artist: José Luis Ribas Fernández
- Initiators: A Coruña Beatles fan club, local cultural organizations, and the city council
- Idea behind the statue: To honour John Lennon’s message of peace and his unexpected link to A Coruña’s spirit of creativity and openness
Detailed Description of the Statue
The bronze sculpture depicts John Lennon standing casually, guitar in hand, in a natural pose reminiscent of his public appearances. It measures roughly 1.8 meters tall and rests on a low stone plinth. On its base is inscribed a Spanish translation of a line from “Imagine”:
“Imagínate nada por lo que matar o morir”
symbolizing Lennon’s enduring call for peace and unity.
Location and Surroundings
Placed along a palm-lined walkway near the garden’s flower beds, the statue blends with other monuments dedicated to writers, artists, and civic figures. The Jardines de Méndez Núñez were chosen for their central, welcoming atmosphere and long tradition of public sculpture dating back to the late 19th century. Visitors often pause here to enjoy the view of the harbor, listen to street musicians, and relax on nearby benches.
Cultural and Social Significance
- The monument draws Beatles fans and Lennon admirers from across Spain and beyond, boosting local tourism.
- Each December 8 (the anniversary of Lennon’s death), flowers and candles are left at its base by visitors.
- Occasional small concerts, poetry readings, and peace vigils take place nearby, reinforcing Lennon’s legacy as a peace campaigner.
Interesting Facts
- Julia Baird (Lennon’s stepsister) attended the unveiling ceremony via video message from Liverpool.
- This is one of only three public statues of John Lennon in Spain and the only one in Galicia.
- The sculptor José Luis Ribas Fernández completed the work after three years of planning by local Beatles fans.
How to Get There
- By bus: Take lines 1, 4, or 6 to the “Cantones” stop; the gardens are a two-minute walk.
- On foot: From Plaza de María Pita, head north along Calle Real then turn right onto Avenida Jardines de Méndez Núñez (about 800 m).
- By taxi: Ask for “Jardines de Méndez Núñez” or show the address to your driver.
- Landmarks: The statue sits opposite the historic Palco de la Música and just steps from the port promenade.
The John Lennon statue in A Coruña is more than a tribute to a legendary musician. It celebrates his ideals of peace and community within a vibrant public space cherished by locals and travelers alike. Visiting this sculpture offers a moment of reflection on Lennon’s message and a chance to experience the warm, creative spirit of A Coruña.
