Tether and the City of Lugano recently unveiled a life-sized statue dedicated to Bitcoin’s mysterious creator, Satoshi Nakamoto, at the 3rd Annual Plan B Forum in Lugano.
This unique installation, set up in front of the historic Villa Ciani, aims to honor the vision behind Bitcoin while reinforcing Lugano’s position as an emerging hub for blockchain technology.
A symbol of Nakamoto’s legacy and disappearance
The statue, created by Italian artist Valentina Picozzi, has been designed to capture the essence of Nakamoto’s anonymity and sudden disappearance from the public sphere. The artwork uses an innovative design that shifts in appearance based on the viewer’s perspective, gradually fading from view. This effect is a metaphor for Nakamoto’s decision to step back after laying the foundation for a groundbreaking financial revolution. The disappearing statue is a reminder of the enigmatic figure who sparked a global movement toward decentralization.
In his remarks, Michele Foletti, the Mayor of Lugano, expressed pride in Lugano’s growing role within the blockchain space. He noted that the statue represents not only an homage to Nakamoto but also the city’s forward-looking approach to digital innovation. Foletti stated that Lugano’s active participation in fostering blockchain technology positions it as a leader in the evolving digital asset ecosystem.
Plan ₿ initiative: A push for Bitcoin adoption in Lugano
The unveiling of Nakamoto’s statue marks a significant moment in the Plan ₿ initiative, a collaborative project between Tether and the City of Lugano. Plan ₿ seeks to accelerate Bitcoin adoption throughout Lugano’s financial infrastructure, integrating blockchain technology into daily life for residents. Under this program, Bitcoin is being incorporated into everyday transactions, allowing local merchants to accept the cryptocurrency and even enabling citizens to use it for tax payments.
Tether’s CEO, Paolo Ardoino, highlighted the statue’s more profound message, noting that Nakamoto’s decision to leave the community in control reflects the core principles of decentralization. Ardoino shared that the artwork commemorates Nakamoto’s contribution and serves as an enduring symbol of the innovation and financial freedom Bitcoin promotes. Through Plan ₿, Lugano aims to create a more inclusive, blockchain-enabled financial system that aligns with these values.
Lugano’s growing Role in blockchain and digital asset innovation
The statue unveiling was part of the 3rd Annual Plan ₿ Forum, a gathering focused on advancing discussions around Bitcoin, blockchain technology, and decentralized finance. The event attracted blockchain industry leaders, government officials, and cryptocurrency enthusiasts who came together to explore the future of digital finance. Through Plan ₿, Lugano continues to position itself as a critical player in the blockchain sector, actively integrating digital asset technologies to foster economic growth and innovation.
According to Tether’s announcement, this installation is a testament to Lugano’s commitment to becoming a leading blockchain and digital asset hub. With Plan ₿, the city aims to reshape its financial infrastructure, paving the way for broader adoption of Bitcoin technology in various areas of daily life.
The statue of Satoshi Nakamoto symbolizes both Lugano’s dedication to blockchain innovation and the lasting impact of Nakamoto’s vision. As the Plan ₿ initiative continues to evolve, Lugano stands at the forefront of the digital revolution, embracing the transformative power of Bitcoin and decentralized finance.