The John Lennon Monument in Lima is the only public statue in South America that honors the legendary Beatles singer-songwriter. It was unveiled in 2007 and features a life-size bronze sculpture of Lennon sitting with an acoustic guitar. Beneath him lies a circular mosaic inscribed with the word “Imagine.” Located in the San Miguel district, the monument sits along Avenida Bertolotto on Lima’s Costa Verde seaside boulevard. Its dramatic location, overlooking the Pacific Ocean, makes it a striking tribute to Lennon’s lasting message of peace and music.
History of the Monument
The monument was officially unveiled in December 2007 to commemorate the 50th anniversary of The Beatles’ formation. San Miguel’s then-mayor, Salvador Heresi, who was an enthusiastic Lennon fan, spearheaded the project. He commissioned Peruvian sculptor Fredy Luque from Arequipa to design and build the statue.
As a result, the idea behind the monument was to bring a meaningful piece of Beatles history—and Lennon’s call for peace—to the Peruvian coast. From the beginning, the intention was not just to celebrate an artist, but also to inspire unity and reflection.
Description of the Statue
- Material: Cast bronze
- Height: Approximately 1.7 meters (life-size)
- Style: Realistic depiction — Lennon appears with long hair, iconic round glasses, and an acoustic guitar
- Base: A circular mosaic featuring the word “Imagine” in the center
The guitar highlights Lennon’s role as a musician and songwriter, while the “Imagine” inscription represents his vision of hope and global unity. Interestingly, the statue contains no other text, allowing visitors to interpret the message on their own.
Location and Surroundings
The monument is situated at the beginning of Avenida Bertolotto, on a high point above the coastal road. Visitors can access it via a paved footpath that climbs from the Costa Verde beachfront. Nearby, you’ll find the San Miguel skatepark and Plaza Media Luna, both popular gathering spots for locals.
Thanks to its elevated position, the statue offers panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean, especially at sunset. Moreover, the area is easy to reach for both residents and tourists, making it an ideal location for quiet reflection or a memorable photo stop.
Cultural and Social Importance
Over the years, the monument has become a meaningful destination for Beatles fans, peace activists, and curious travelers. Every year, people gather there to leave flowers, sing Beatles songs, and honor Lennon’s legacy.
Notably, commemorative events take place on October 9, Lennon’s birthday, and December 8, the day of his passing. These events typically feature live music, candlelight vigils, and heartfelt tributes from fans of all ages.
Consequently, the monument has boosted cultural tourism in San Miguel, drawing attention to the area’s artistic and musical appreciation. It stands as a symbol of how global icons can leave local impact.
Fun Facts
- This statue is the first and only public monument in Peru dedicated to a foreign musician.
- According to local stories, a group of skateboarders once asked city officials to install a mini ramp near the statue so Lennon could “skate” with them.
- Despite the area’s coastal weather, the statue and its mosaic remain in excellent condition. That’s thanks to consistent upkeep led by local volunteers.
How to Get There
- By Bus: Take any bus heading toward San Miguel via Costa Verde. Ask to stop at “Estatua John Lennon” or “Av. Bertolotto.”
- By Metrobus (Corredor Azul): Exit at the “San Miguel” stop, then walk southwest toward Avenida Bertolotto (approximately 10 minutes).
- On Foot: From Plaza Media Luna, follow signs uphill along a paved pedestrian path (about a 5-minute walk).
- Landmarks: Look for the large skatepark and the “Imagine” mosaic beneath the statue.
The John Lennon Monument in Lima is more than a tribute — it is a space where music, memory, and community come together. Its unique coastal location, artistic symbolism, and heartfelt message make it a must-visit for Beatles fans and travelers seeking a moment of peace. Whether you’re there to reflect, take in the view, or sing along with others, the statue offers a powerful reminder of Lennon’s timeless call for unity and imagination.
