Christ the King

Category: Civil Architecture > Monument

District: Setúbal > Almada > Pragal > Cristo-Rei

Location

The National Sanctuary of Christ the King stands majestically on the south bank of the Tagus River estuary, in the locality of Pragal, within the municipality of Almada. Its elevated position, on a natural promontory, offers a stunning perspective over the city of Lisbon, the 25th of April Bridge, and the vast expanse of the Tagus, set within an atmosphere of serenity and contemplation.

The imposing nature of its structure makes it a landmark easily visible from various parts of the Portuguese capital, distinctly marking the landscape of the Lisbon Metropolitan Area and lending it a notable presence at the entrance to the river's bar.

History and Symbolism

The idea for the construction of Christ the King emerged in 1940, during a visit by the Cardinal Patriarch of Lisbon, D. Manuel Gonçalves Cerejeira, to Brazil, where he had the opportunity to see Christ the Redeemer of Corcovado. The decision to erect the monument in Portugal was a collective vow by the Portuguese Episcopal Conference, as a way of thanking God for having spared the country from the horrors of World War II, keeping it out of the conflict.

Inaugurated on May 17, 1959, the monument is a profound symbol of peace, gratitude, and faith. It represents an invocation of divine protection over Portugal, expressed through the figure of Christ with open arms, in a gesture of welcome and blessing.

Architecture and Structure

The structure of Christ the King is composed of two main parts: a monumental portico eighty-two meters high and the statue of Christ the Redeemer, which measures twenty-eight meters in height. The ensemble reaches a total height of one hundred and ten meters above ground level, giving it an impressive scale.

The statue of Christ, sculpted by the Portuguese artist Francisco Franco, rests on the trapezoidal portico, which houses a chapel and various support spaces. Its architectural design, while robust and functional, stands out for the simplicity of its lines that highlight the central figure, giving it an imposing and inviting presence.

Scenic Value and Contemplation

Beyond its religious and historical significance, Christ the King constitutes a point of interest for the panoramic views it provides. The site invites observation and reflection, allowing visitors to appreciate the confluence of Lisbon's urban landscape with the natural vastness of the Tagus estuary and the surrounding coastline.

The surroundings of the monument are conducive to moments of tranquility, where the dimension of the work harmonizes with the amplitude of the horizon, offering a unique setting for those seeking an experience of beauty and introspection.

License: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/deed.pt