Lisbon sightseeing - Cristo Rei statue
Discover the Iconic Cristo Rei Statue in Lisbon: Your Ultimate Guide
Everything you need to know about visiting the Christ the King monument, from its fascinating history to breathtaking views of Lisbon.
Have you ever spotted that towering Jesus statue gazing over Lisbon and wondered about its story? That's Cristo Rei, an inspiring 82-meter-tall monument perched on the south bank of the Tagus River in Almada. Often compared to Rio de Janeiro's Christ the Redeemer, this iconic landmark is more than just a statue—it's a symbol of gratitude and a must-visit for stunning panoramic views. Ready to dive into its history, plan your trip, and soak in Lisbon's best vistas? Let's get started!
The Story Behind Cristo Rei
Why does Lisbon have a giant Christ statue? The Cristo Rei monument, inaugurated on May 17, 1959, was built to express Portugal's gratitude for being spared the direct devastation of World War II. The idea sparked when the Cardinal Patriarch of Lisbon visited Rio's Christ the Redeemer and envisioned a similar symbol of faith for Portugal. Designed by sculptor Francisco Franco de Sousa, this masterpiece took a decade to complete. Fun fact: Its open-arm pose mirrors Rio's famous statue, but Cristo Rei's angular pedestal gives it a unique flair.
Architecture and Design
Ever wondered what makes Cristo Rei stand out? This modernist statue combines faith and engineering. The statue itself is 28 meters tall, but its 54-meter angular pedestal boosts the total height to an impressive 82 meters. Crafted with energy-saving lighting (thanks to Schréder's eco-friendly design), it glows beautifully at night. Inside, you'll find a small chapel and an exhibition space that tell the statue's story. While it draws inspiration from Rio's Christ the Redeemer, Cristo Rei's sleek lines and unique pedestal make it a Lisbon original. Love architecture? You'll be amazed by the details!
Why Visit Cristo Rei?
Is Cristo Rei Worth Visiting? Absolutely, and here's why! The Cristo Rei statue offers more than just a photo op—it's an experience. From the top, you'll enjoy unparalleled 360-degree views of Lisbon, the Tagus River, and the iconic 25 de Abril Bridge. It's a peaceful escape from the city's hustle, perfect for travelers seeking stunning scenery.
Tips for Visiting
- Best Time to Visit: Go early in the morning or late afternoon for fewer crowds and golden-hour lighting.
- Weather Check: Almada's weather can be warm during the summer, so pack sunscreen and a hat. (Include weather widget for Almada)
- What to Bring: Comfortable shoes for exploring and a bottle of water for sunny days.
- Nearby Attractions: After visiting, check out Costa da Caparica beaches or head to Serra da Arrabida and Setubal
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Got questions about visiting Cristo Rei? We've got answers:
- What does Cristo Rei mean in English? Cristo Rei translates to "Christ the King," reflecting its role as a Catholic monument and shrine.
- How tall is Cristo Rei in Lisbon? The statue stands 82 meters tall, including its 54-meter pedestal.
- Can you go inside the Cristo Rei statue? Absolutely—you can visit the chapel and take an elevator to the viewing platform.
- How do I get to Cristo Rei by ferry? Take the ferry from Cais do Sodré to Cacilhas (8 minutes), then a short bus or taxi - Uber to the statue.
Photogallery
Visitor Information
How to Visit Cristo Rei: Planning a trip to the Cristo Rei statue? Here's everything you need to know to make your visit seamless:
- Location: The statue stands proudly in Almada, across the Tagus River from central Lisbon. It's a commanding presence overlooking the city and the 25 de Abril Bridge.
- Getting There:
- By Ferry: Hop on the commuter ferry from Cais do Sodré station in Lisbon. It's just an 8-minute ride to Cacilhas, followed by a short bus or taxi to the statue.
- By Bus or Taxi: Direct buses from Lisbon or a quick taxi ride will get you there in about 20-30 minutes.
- Tickets: Entry starts at €8, with discounts for kids and seniors. Book in advance on the official website cristorei.pt to skip the line.
- Opening Hours: The sanctuary is open daily, but hours vary by season. Check the official site for the latest schedule.
- What to Expect: Take an elevator to the 82-meter-high viewing platform for jaw-dropping views of Lisbon, the Tagus estuary, and beyond. There's also a small chapel and exhibition space inside.
Take a Tour to the Cristo Rei Statue
How to reach the Cristo Rei statue ?
Getting to the Cristo Rei statue in Lisbon is easy and convenient. One of the best options is the ferry from Lisbon to Cacilhas. At the Cais do Sodré ferry terminal in Lisbon, buy a ticket for the approximately 10-minute crossing. Once you arrive in Cacilhas, you can take a bus that will take you directly to the statue. The bus ride takes about 15 minutes. Alternatively, you can take a taxi for a faster, but more expensive, option.
Location map of the Cristo Rey statue
Excursion by ferry to the Cristo Rei statue
By ferry to the Christ Statue
The ferry to Cacilhas is an easy way to visit the famous Cristo Rei statue.
To reach the statue, you can take a ferry from Lisbon to Cacilhas and from there, take a bus or taxi to the statue. Here's how to get there:
Start at the ferry terminal at Cais do Sodré in Lisbon. Buy a ticket for the ferry to Cacilhas. The ride takes about 10 minutes.
Once you arrive in Cacilhas, you can take a bus that will take you directly near the Christ the King statue. Several buses run, so be sure to ask for the number when you arrive. The bus runs frequently and the journey takes about 15 minutes. Alternatively, you can take a taxi, which is faster but more expensive.
The view from the Christ the Redeemer statue is worth seeing and offers a panoramic view of the city of Lisbon, the Tagus River and the 25 de Abril Bridge.