Broke a leg, they said. The famous Charging bull Amsterdam had to be repaired. But now, after a year and a half, the bull is back. Standing here on Beursplein, you’re face to face with a scaled-down version of the Wall Street icon.
This Charging bull Amsterdam is not just a pretty sculpture. It is a powerful symbol. Italian-American artist Arturo Di Modica secretly placed it here in July 2012. Di Modica wanted to send a message of positivity to Europe during tough economic times. He sadly passed away in 2021.
The Charging bull Amsterdam stands right outside the Euronext. This is the pan-European stock exchange group. Di Modica chose a bull because of its attacking stance. The bull lowers its head and throws its victim up. This mirrors the movements of trading prices on the stock exchange. The bull also represents a bull market. This is an ever-increasing stock market. The message is clear: think positive and together we will rise.
This Charging bull Amsterdam was a gift from Di Modica. He installed the 2500-kilogram artwork without permission. But the city allowed it to stay. It was moved slightly to avoid obstruction.
Look closely at the Charging bull Amsterdam. Many people rub its nose, horns, or testicles. They believe it brings financial luck. Whether that’s true or not, it’s a fun tradition.
The Charging bull Amsterdam is more than art. It embodies Amsterdam’s spirit. It reminds us to stay strong and resilient. Take a moment to admire its detail. Feel the energy of Beursplein around you. Notice the nearby cafes and shops. They add to the lively atmosphere. The Charging bull Amsterdam stands as a testament to the city’s enduring vibrancy.
Amsterdam’s stock exchange couldn’t be without a bull. Just like in New York, this statue quickly became a tourist magnet. Di Modica wanted to spread a positive message during the difficult stock market year of 2012. He wanted people to stay positive in times of crisis.
In Anglo-Saxon countries, the bull symbolizes optimism and appreciation of value on the stock exchange. It’s often shown fighting a bear. The bear represents pessimism and stock market decline. The bull throws the bear up with its horns. The bear tries to pull the bull down with its claws. Together, they show the ups and downs of the market.