Lugano Unveils Statue Honoring Pseudonymous Bitcoin Founder Satoshi Nakamoto

The city of Lugano in Switzerland is the latest to unveil a statue honoring Satoshi Nakamoto, the pseudonymous Bitcoin founder.

The city of Lugano in Switzerland has unveiled a statue honoring Satoshi Nakamoto, the pseudonymous founder of Bitcoin (BTC).

According to a blog post by Tether on Friday, the statue was created in collaboration with the Plan B network and the City of Lugano. It was unveiled at the Lugano Villa Ciani during the 2024 Plan B Lugano forum.

The monument depicts Nakamoto's anonymity, showing a figure sitting with legs crossed, a covered face, and what looks like a personal computer. The perspective changes as the viewer moves, making the statue appear to vanish from some angles.

Tether's CEO Paolo Ardoino said the statue serves as a tribute to Satoshi Nakamoto's contribution to the global financial system and their initiative to hand over their vision to the community.

Lugano has become a hub for Bitcoin adoption since it began accepting BTC, Tether’s stablecoin USDT, and the city token LVGA as legal tender in March 2022. Lugano and El Salvador are among the few entities to adopt cryptocurrencies in this capacity.

In December 2023, the City of Lugano also adopted Bitcoin and USDT as means of paying taxes and municipal fees. This move could pave the way for cities and public entities to integrate cryptocurrencies into their financial systems.

Satoshi Nakamoto's status, according to Lugano Mayor Michele Foletti, reflects the city's goal of becoming a leading center for digital innovation. He added that Lugano was honored to host the Plan B conference and unveil a lasting tribute to the pseudonymous Bitcoin founder.