High above the Tejo River stands the Cristo Rei statue. A majestic figure it overlooks Lisbon. Inspired by Rio de Janeiro’s Christ the Redeemer this monument is truly awe-inspiring.
Its construction began after World War II. It was a testament to Portugal’s survival. The foundation stone was laid in 1949. It took another three years before work actually started. Completed in 1959 the statue became a symbol of the Salazar dictatorship. Church and state were intertwined in its creation.
Made of reinforced concrete the statue is 133 meters tall. The observation deck is at 89 meters. The views from this height are breathtaking. You can see for dozens of kilometers. The Vasco da Gama Bridge is visible in the distance.
From across the river in Cacilhas the statue’s size is remarkable. You can appreciate the Ponte 25 de Abril bridge as well. Cacilhas itself is a charming suburb known for delicious seafood. Many restaurants offer beautiful river views. Fishermen ply their trade along the waterfront. The Lisbon cityscape makes a stunning backdrop.
The Cristo Rei statue isn’t just a monument. It’s a symbol of faith resilience and a remarkable piece of Portuguese history. Its imposing presence will leave a lasting impression on you.