High on the Puig de Christ Rei stands a testament to faith. It is not just a statue. It is a story etched in bronze and stone. We are standing before the Crist Rei.
This monument began its journey in the early 20th century. Specifically, construction started in 1925. The chapel of the Christ was conceived as a tribute to Easter. It was also dedicated to Jesus Christ.
Imagine the people of Selva. Before the Crist Rei, they had to walk to Mancor de la Valle. They visited the Santa Lucia chapel on Easter. The Crist Rei offered them a closer place for worship.
Sadly, the original chapel had a short life. Commercial exploitation of the land led to its ruin. Today, only one of the two original towers remains standing. But the spirit of the Crist Rei endures.
Interestingly, this site has a history stretching back to the Middle Ages. It served as a communication post. It was part of Mallorca’s extensive tower network. Coastal watchtowers would spot hostile ships. They sent signals using smoke and flags. This early warning system reached inland towers. Towns prepared for battle thanks to these signals.
The tower stands atop Puig de Christ Rei. This hill gets its name from the former chapel. The chapel’s ruins are still here.
In the mid-18th century, the site became an optical telegraph station. This El Telégrafo Óptico communicated with watchtowers. These were in Alcúdia and other locations. The towers relayed smoke signals. They also used flags to warn of approaching enemy ships. This allowed the island to mobilize its defenses.
The Crist Rei monument in Felanitx shares similarities with the Cristo de Corcovado. The one is in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. The Brazilian statue is taller at 30 meters. It stands on a 9-meter pedestal. The Crist Rei has reversed proportions. The Christ figure is 7 meters tall. Its support reaches 37 meters. Rio’s monument used reinforced concrete. It was built between 1922 and 1931. The Mallorcan monument was erected between 1928 and 1934.
Initially, not everyone appreciated the Crist Rei statue. Some felt it clashed with the monastery’s older, austere style. Tomàs Vila Mayol, a Mallorcan artist, sculpted the bronze figure. Over time, acceptance grew. Now, the people of Felanitx venerate the Crist Rei.
As you stand here, take in the views. The pastoral landscapes stretch out below you. Reflect on the history. The Crist Rei is more than a monument. It is a symbol of faith, communication, and community. It is a reminder of Mallorca’s rich past.