A funny but controversial statue of Santa Claus holding a uh…“Christmas tree”...designed by American artist Paul McCarthy.
No, not McCartney. Paul McCarthy. Don’t worry, we did a double-take too.
Add this to the list of weird and wonderful statues in Europe. Santa Claus has been given a liberal, European twist. It's not a particularly seasonal sight, but worth a look if you like art and have a sense of humour.
The artwork, depicting Santa Claus holding a pine tree, was commissioned by the city of Rotterdam in 2001. American artist, Paul McCarthy, was the sculptor behind this infamous masterpiece...or disasterpiece depending on how you look at it. We do think it's pretty funny.
...Now, yes, we know what you’ve been thinking this whole time. That does look like what you think it looks like. If you’re a bit confused (and over 18!), feel free to do your own research.
Located in Rotterdam’s Eendrachtsplein square, it took a while for Santa Claus and his “tree” to find their home. The statue gained quite the reputation after Rotterdammers gave it a descriptive nickname. Local protests saw it placed in a quieter part of the city rather than in the busy Schouwburgplein, outside of the city’s concert hall. A costly problem for the local government, the statue was moved several times before it was finally placed where you can see it today in November 2008.
Tips and Tricks
- Unless you’re desperate to see Santa for yourself and maybe score some laughs on Instagram we wouldn’t recommend going out of your way to see it. Rotterdam has plenty of artsy places to explore. But, if you are in the area, there are plenty of nice restaurants around where you can grab a quick bite to eat.
- Sure to be a hit on social media, but maybe not with your conservative aunt, bring a camera to snap some memorable pictures. You won’t forget your time in Rotterdam after this.
Getting There
- By Car: Interparking Lijnbaan is a 2 mins walk away from the square.
- By Bus: Eendrachtsplein bus stop is next to the square. Served by bus 32.
- By Metro: Eendrachtsplein metro station is on the square.
- By Tram: Eendrachtsplein tram stop is opposite the square.
Book a nearby experience
Pretty hard to miss since it's located in the center of town, but this Naughty Santa is "out there" enough to catch anyone's attention! A funny, weird sculpture that doesn't exactly scream "Merry Christmas."
— An American expat abroad