The monument was built as an expression of gratitude because Portugal was spared from the direct destruction of World War II.
The pedestal was designed by architect António Lino and the statue by sculptor Francisco Franco de Sousa.
The base of the statue includes a chapel dedicated to Our Lady of Peace.
The total height of the structure is 110 meters, making it one of the tallest constructions in the Lisbon metropolitan area.
The 25 de Abril Bridge was built significantly later than the statue, as it only opened to traffic in 1966.
The statue is oriented such that Christ's arms are outstretched toward the city of Lisbon.
During the construction period, the project faced significant logistical challenges due to the sheer height of the pedestal above the river cliffs.
The sanctuary is officially categorized as a National Sanctuary within the Catholic Church in Portugal.
The Sanctuary of Christ the King is a monumental statue and shrine located on the southern bank of the Tagus River in Almada, Portugal. Inspired by the Christ the Redeemer statue in Rio de Janeiro, the monument consists of a 28-meter statue of Christ standing atop an 82-meter pedestal. The structure was commissioned by the Portuguese Episcopate to offer prayers for peace during World War II. It was inaugurated on May 17, 1959, and serves as a significant religious pilgrimage site. The pedestal is constructed of reinforced concrete and features four arches supporting the statue. Visitors can access an observation deck via an elevator located inside the pedestal. The site provides a panoramic vantage point over the city of Lisbon and the 25 de Abril Bridge. The statue itself faces toward the center of Lisbon across the river.
The base of the statue pedestal looking upward, or the observation deck looking directly toward the 25 de Abril Bridge.
Bring a windbreaker or light jacket as the observation deck is significantly exposed to river winds regardless of the temperature below.
Bring binoculars to identify specific Lisbon landmarks across the river from the viewing platform.
Visit on a clear day to ensure visibility extends to the Serra da Arrábida mountains.
Avoid visiting during heavy fog or low-cloud days, as the height of the statue renders the observation deck views completely obscured.
Maintain a respectful tone as it is an active religious shrine; avoid loud noise near the chapel.
