Swiss City of Lugano Pays Tribute to Bitcoin’s Creator Satoshi Nakamoto with New Statue

In a symbolic celebration of Bitcoin and its enigmatic creator, Satoshi Nakamoto, Tether collaborated with Lugano authorities to unveil a remarkable statue dedicated to the mysterious figure. This grand reveal took place at the third annual Plan ₿ Forum, a landmark event in Lugano’s growing role in blockchain adoption.

Designed by artist Valentina Picozzi, the statue captures Nakamoto’s mysterious legacy through a perspective-driven design. From the sides, viewers see an image of a man absorbed in his laptop—a nod to Nakamoto’s pioneering efforts. Yet, as one moves to the front or back, the figure fades, symbolizing Nakamoto’s retreat from the public eye after igniting the path for decentralized finance. Tether CEO Paolo Ardoino praised the piece, stating, “This artwork serves as a reminder of the enduring influence of Satoshi’s vision, inspiring us to continue pushing the boundaries of innovation and financial freedom.”

The statue, placed in front of Lugano’s historic Villa Ciani, reinforces the principles of decentralization and financial independence that Nakamoto championed while keeping his true identity a mystery.

Plan ₿ Initiative Drives Crypto Adoption in Lugano

Since launching the Plan ₿ initiative with Tether in 2021, Lugano has made significant advances in embracing digital assets. The initiative has transformed Lugano into a hub for cryptocurrency, enabling residents to pay for public services, taxes, and fees using Bitcoin (BTC), Tether (USDT), and the city’s Swiss-franc-pegged stablecoin, LVGA.

The Plan ₿ Forum, hosted annually, invites blockchain industry leaders, government officials, and crypto enthusiasts to discuss the future of digital finance. Michele Foletti, the Mayor of Lugano, acknowledged the city’s commitment, saying, “Lugano is rapidly becoming a leading hub for digital innovation, and this statue honors Satoshi Nakamoto but also embodies the forward-thinking spirit that drives our city.”

In December 2023, Lugano introduced technology allowing residents to scan QR codes on invoices for seamless payments with their chosen mobile wallets. With this dedication to crypto adoption, Lugano solidifies its place as a progressive city championing blockchain technology and decentralized finance.