In a ceremony held on July 10, 2025, coinciding with her 53rd birthday, Barranquilla unveiled an imposing statue in honor of Sofia Vergara on the Gran Malecon of the Magdalena River.
The 7.5 meter high, 5.5 ton sculpture is made of bronze (with an internal iron structure) and was created by sculptor Yino Márquez, who is also responsible for the monuments of Shakira and “El Joe”.
Sofia Vergara Statue: Design, Symbolism and Location
The work depicts Sofia in a glamorous pose: in a dark blue dress that evokes the color of river water and the Caribbean Sea, and her arm outstretched towards a star – a symbolic gesture of aspiration and success.
Her golden skin projects elegance and strength, tributes to her Carribean roots.
The statue is located a few meters away from the already existing Shakira statue, installed in December 2023, consolidating this corridor as a space dedicated to two great Barranquilla icons.
Comparisons and criticisms in social networks
The monumental figure generated reactions in networks:
Some users highlighted its elegance and symbolism, praising Márquez’s work and the reflection of Barranquilla’s pride.
Others pointed out that it begins an inevitable comparison with Shakira’s statue, criticizing the level of physical resemblance achieved.
Sofia expressed her gratitude through social networks: “I thank Barranquilla for everything I am… this statue is not only a tribute to me, but to the people of Barranquilla”.
For his part, Mayor Alejandro Char highlighted her authenticity: “she has never stopped being from Barranquilla, nor has she changed her accent… always believing in her”.
Does it look like Shakira’s statue?
Although both statues share location, scale and materials, there are notable differences:
Height and weight: Sofia’s is 7.5 m and weighs 5.5 t; Shakira’s is 6.5 m, simulates inlaid waves on her skirt, and also uses bronze and aluminum.
Posture and symbolism: Sofia is in a static and glamorous pose, flowing dress and pointing gesture; Shakira appears in movement, with a skirt that alludes to dance and river.
Public reception: Shakira’s statue was well received for its artistic originality and cultural link to the Malecón; Sofia’s statue generated a mixture of praise for the legacy and criticism for stylistic similarities.
Sofía Vergara se ha convertido en una representante muy destacada de la figura latina en Hollywood y en la televisión de Estados Unidos
A successful Latina
Buzzy
For Latinos in the United States, these statues represent models of international Hispanic success.
Vergara and Shakira symbolize professional triumph without forgetting their Barranquilla roots.
In addition, they consolidate the Malecón as an iconic cultural landmark, inspiring pride and visibility for Latin American artists in the diaspora.
In short, the Sofia Vergara statue complements, celebrates and extends the legacy of Barranquilla figures on the Malecon. Although similar in scale and prestige, they reflect different stories.
Their presence together reinforces a powerful message: strong and diverse Latino talent is finding its place and recognition in the world.
Here is a video of Sofia Vergara’s statue.
Find out more at ‘QueOnnda.com’.
