National Sanctuary of Christ the King

Category: Religious Architecture > Sanctuary

District: Setúbal > Almada > Pragal > Cristo-Rei

Location

The National Sanctuary of Christ the King stands majestically on the south bank of the Tagus River, in the locality of Cristo-Rei, belonging to Pragal, in the municipality of Almada, district of Setúbal. Its elevated position grants it prominent visibility and a unique perspective over the Portuguese capital, the 25 de Abril Bridge, and the vast expanse of the Tagus estuary.

Situated on a natural promontory, the site offers an environment of serene contemplation, where the grandeur of human work harmonizes with the surrounding landscape beauty, marked by the river's proximity and unobstructed views to the horizon.

History and Symbolism

The construction of the National Sanctuary of Christ the King has its roots in a promise made by Portuguese bishops in 1940, should Portugal be spared the horrors of the Second World War. The nation, in fact, remained on the sidelines of direct conflict, and the work began in 1949, culminating in its inauguration on May 17, 1959.

This monument is, therefore, a profound symbol of peace, gratitude, and faith for the Portuguese people. The figure of Christ with open arms represents a gesture of welcome and protection over the city of Lisbon and, by extension, over the entire nation, reflecting the desire for harmony and well-being.

Architecture and Scenic Views

The grandeur of the National Sanctuary of Christ the King lies in its remarkable architectural structure, composed of a monumental portico-shaped pedestal, approximately 82 meters high, upon which rests the figure of Christ the King, approximately 28 meters tall. The statue, with sober lines, presents Christ with open arms, facing Lisbon, in a posture that evokes welcome and serenity.

Inside the pedestal, there are spaces for reflection, including a main chapel. Visitors have the opportunity to ascend to the top of the pedestal via elevators, accessing a viewpoint located directly below the statue. From this elevated point, the panoramic views are truly spectacular, encompassing a vast area that includes the city of Lisbon, the 25 de Abril Bridge, and the winding Tagus River towards the sea, providing an unforgettable visual experience of the Lisbon and Setúbal region.

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