Sosúa Council orders removal of underwater Atabey Statue

Sosua.- The Sosúa City Council in Puerto Plata unanimously approved the removal of the Atabey statue, a 16-foot underwater sculpture installed in March 2023 as both a tourist attraction and a project to restore coral reefs.

The decision came during a session led by Council President Fausto Santos, following a proposal by Catholic priest Johnny Espinal Castillo and pastor Sebero Cordero Capellán, head of the Federation of Pastors. The statue, representing Atabey—the Taíno mother of water deity—was installed by the Maguá Foundation and Global Coralition to promote art, culture, and environmental conservation.

Since its placement in Sosúa Bay, the sculpture has sparked controversy. Supporters highlight its cultural significance and ecological benefits, while critics, particularly religious groups, denounce it as promoting idolatry. The municipal ordinance has reignited the debate on social media, with opinions split between viewing the statue as a valuable cultural and environmental initiative or as an unwanted foreign element.