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La Mano de Punta del Este
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Landmark
La Mano de Punta del Este, also known as 'The Fingers' (Los Dedos), is a famous sculpture located on Brava Beach in Punta del Este. Created by Chilean artist Mario Irarrázabal, it was erected in the summer of 1982 during the first International Meeting of Modern Sculpture in the Open Air held in the city. The sculpture depicts five human fingertips emerging from the sand. Irarrázabal designed the work as a warning to swimmers about the dangerous waves at Brava beach, with the partially submerged hand symbolizing a drowning man. Against all odds, the sculpture immediately became an iconic symbol of Punta del Este and one of Uruguay's most recognizable landmarks. The sculpture was made from concrete and reinforced with plastic and steel to withstand the erosive seaside environment. It is a popular spot for tourists and locals to take photographs and has been restored multiple times over the years to ensure its preservation. Irarrázabal later created similar sculptures in other locations, such as the Hand of the Desert in Chile, but the one in Punta del Este remains the first and most famous.
- Location: Uruguay
- Top sights: Montepilatus · Museo Ralli Punta del Este · Sunset point
- Nearby: Pan de Azúcar (34 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Mar, Dec.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 22 | 22 | 21 | 18 | 15 | 12 | 11 | 12 | 13 | 15 | 18 | 20 |
| Rain mm | 97 | 118 | 117 | 110 | 91 | 104 | 96 | 100 | 98 | 103 | 93 | 86 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
The sculpture 'La Mano' is located directly on the beach of Punta del Este and is freely accessible at all times. It is a popular photo subject in a public space.
Typical hours
As it is a public sculpture on the beach, there are no opening hours. It can be visited around the clock, but caution is needed during high tide.
Photography
Photography is allowed at any time - the sculpture is one of Uruguay's most photographed subjects. Shots are especially effective at low tide when the fingers are fully visible.
Time needed
A short visit for photos and admiration takes 10 to 15 minutes. Those wanting to enjoy the beach can easily stay half an hour or more.
Combine with
Punta del Este has numerous beaches, restaurants, and the Ralli Museum. Combine the hand visit with a walk along the Rambla and a stop at the harbor.
Getting there
The sculpture is on Brava Beach, reachable on foot from central Punta del Este. By car, parking is available along the coastal road; public buses stop nearby.
Insider tip
Come early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds. Wear waterproof footwear as the sculpture's feet can be in the water at high tide.
Geography
Facts
- Created by Chilean artist Mario Irarrázabal in 1982.
- The artist had only one week to complete the work.
- It is located on Brava Beach in Punta del Este.
- The sculpture is made of concrete on a metal skeleton.
- It symbolizes a man 'emerging' into life.
- There is a similar sculpture by the same artist in the Atacama Desert.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
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Sights in the town La Mano de Punta del Este (11)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
When is the best time to visit La Mano de Punta del Este without crowds?
Early morning is the quietest time.
La Mano de Punta del Este: where is it located?
La Mano de Punta del Este is located in Uruguay.
La Mano de Punta del Este: what is there to see?
Highlights include Montepilatus, Museo Ralli Punta del Este, Sunset point.
La Mano de Punta del Este: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Mar, Dec.
La Mano de Punta del Este: why is it worth visiting?
La Mano de Punta del Este, also known as 'The Fingers' (Los Dedos), is a famous sculpture located on Brava Beach in Punta del Este.
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Nearby cities
Maldonado
Maldonado is the capital city of the MA department in Uruguay and the administrative center of the region.
Punta del Este
Punta del Este is an important city in the MA department of Uruguay, known for its role in the regional economy.
Piriápolis
Piriápolis is an important city in the MA department of Uruguay, known for its role in the regional economy.
Pan de Azúcar
Pan de Azúcar is an important city in the MA department of Uruguay, known for its role in the regional economy.
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Leonel Viera Bridge
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Casapueblo
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Piria's Castle
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Nature
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Laguna José Ignacio
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Laguna Garzón
A picturesque lagoon crossed by an unusual ring bridge and designated as a protected nature area.
Arroyo Solís Grande
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A major marina playing a crucial role in the high-end tourism and leisure economy.
Gorriti Island
A forested island off the coast of Punta del Este known for its beaches and historical ruins.
Dragoon Barracks
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La Barra Museum of the Sea
A family-friendly museum featuring a massive collection of shells, whale skeletons, and maritime artifacts.
Isla de Lobos Island
A rocky island off Punta del Este serving as a vital refuge for South American fur seals.
Isla de Lobos
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Chacra La Anyta Olive Farm
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Tambo Lapataia Farm
A popular agrotourism farm where families can experience the production of the famous dulce de leche.