Cavallo di Sabbia
Mimmo Paladino’s monumental sand sculpture stands between two ancient Greek temples, bridging contemporary art and archaeological wonder.
At a glance
A 4-meter-high sand sculpture by artist Mimmo Paladino occupies the space between the Temple of Hera and the Temple of Neptune in Paestum’s southern sanctuary. Crafted from sand harvested from local beaches, the work has been on exhibition since July 2019 through an agreement between the Archaeological Park and the Museum of Minimal Materials of Contemporary Art.
History
Paladino created the Cavallo di Sabbia in 1999. The work arrived at Paestum as part of a contemporary art initiative designed to invite reflection on the site’s layered meanings. The ancient city itself was called Poseidonia, named after Poseidon—god of the sea and lord of horses—a mythological connection the sculpture directly engages.
What you see
The sculpture appears as an imposing form entirely covered in sand, its surface texture and material drawing immediate attention to impermanence and earth. Positioned deliberately among Classical ruins, it creates a visual and conceptual dialogue between ancient stone temples and this ephemeral contemporary work.
Cultural significance
The work invites visitors to reconsider what an archaeological site can be and what stories it tells. By materializing the connection to Poseidon through a horse form made of Paestum’s own beaches, Paladino’s sculpture prompts reflection on ancient ritual, mythology, and their resonance today.
Key facts
- Address: Via Magna Graecia, 917/919, 84047 Paestum
- Coordinates: 40.4192036, 15.0054458
- Artist: Mimmo Paladino
- Year created: 1999
- Height: approximately 4 meters
- Material: sand from Paestum beaches
- On view since: 11 July 2019
- Phone: 0828 811023
Practical information
The sculpture is accessible as part of a visit to the Archaeological Park of Paestum. Information about hours, admission and current exhibitions can be found on the official website.
Getting there
The site is located in Paestum, Campania, near the temples in the southern sanctuary. You can reach it by following directions to the Archaeological Park of Paestum using the provided coordinates and address.
Sources & resources
Find it on the map
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