11/03/07

Great public plaza

by uradel

The Civic Center is a wonderful public square that plays host to many people and many events. Hundreds of office workers take advantage of the setting to have lunch on a nice day. The eternal flame (for Chgo. war veterans) burns forever nearby, and there is a beautiful fountain and the beguiling sculpture by Pablo Picasso simply known as "The Picasso" or "The Chicago Picasso". I was at the unveiling as a child and it was very different in color and tone back in the 60's. Ever the futurist, Picasso new that the metals he chose (the same as the metals used for the high rise behind it) would mellow and weather to become one with its building backdrop. Now it's a natural part of the landscape, very organic, as though the sculpture and the building have sprung up together from the ground. During holiday time there is a wonderful Christmas Market like the traditional Kristkind markets of Germany or Austria. The stalls are laden with wonderful German pastries, breads, chocolates, marzipans & gifts. It is magical, with nearby vendors selling hot roasted chestnuts from carts. I can't mention the holidays without our beautiful city tree. There is a fabulous celebration almost like a new year countdown, to throw the switch that lights the tree for the first night of the season. It's a happening place.

• Pros: Wonderful open public plaza
• Cons: none

08/18/03

The heart of Chicago's Loop honors the first Mayor Daley.

by Contributor

The Plaza
Bustling throughout the year, this recently renovated downtown public space is a civic-event hot spot. It serves more than 10,000 people a day, taking lunch breaks by the fountain, attending concerts under the Picasso sculpture, or wandering through one of many holiday markets. During the winter, this is where the city's huge Christmas tree stands. The 31-story office building behind the plaza houses various city and county offices and courtrooms. At the plaza's west end, an eternal flame burns in honor of Chicago war veterans.

The Sculpture
Known as simply "The Picasso," was designed by Picasso and built by the U.S. Steel Corporation. From the day it appeared, it provoked discussion. The steel used in the construction is the same used for the office building and has developed the same patina over time. Picasso died before ever visiting the United States to see the completion of his design.