At the end of Wilshire Boulevard in Palisades Park, the 18-foot Santa Monica Statue depicts Saint Monica, the city’s namesake. Eugene Morahan completed the sculpture in 1934, with funding from Franklin Roosevelt’s New Deal-era Public Works of Art Project. Its distinctive art deco style gives the religious figure a different look from traditional depictions. Walk behind the statue for views over Pacific Coast Highway, the beach and the ocean, or pause here for a quiet moment of reflection.
Saint Monica and the city
The statue depicts Saint Monica, also known as Monica of Hippo and the mother of Saint Augustine of Hippo. She is honored in the Catholic and Orthodox churches. The city of Santa Monica is named after her.
One account connects the area’s name to a natural spring discovered by the missionary Father Juan Crespí. The spring reminded him of the tears Monica shed over her son. It remains at the site of present-day Uni High.
A 1934 sculpture in Palisades Park
Eugene Morahan completed the 18-foot statue in 1934. Funding came from the Public Works of Art Project, part of Franklin Roosevelt’s New Deal. The sculpture stands on the bluffs in Palisades Park, near the corner of Ocean Avenue and Wilshire Boulevard.
Its art deco design gives the religious figure a distinct style. The statue is easy to pass by on the way toward the ocean, so look for it at the end of Wilshire Boulevard. Nearby, Palisades Park also has other sculptures and art installations.
Preguntas frecuentes
Where is the Santa Monica Statue?
It stands in Palisades Park near the corner of Ocean Avenue and Wilshire Boulevard, at the end of Wilshire Boulevard.
Who does the statue depict?
It depicts Saint Monica, the namesake of Santa Monica and the mother of Saint Augustine of Hippo.
Is the statue accessible by wheelchair?
The listed amenities include a wheelchair-accessible entrance and wheelchair-accessible parking.
