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The Cristo Rei Statue in Almada, located just across the Tagus River from Lisbon, is one of the most iconic landmarks in Portugal. Standing at an impressive 28 meters tall on a 82-meter pedestal, this monumental statue of Christ the King is not only a religious symbol but also offers some of the best panoramic views of Lisbon and the surrounding areas. With its majestic presence and breathtaking views, it has become a must-visit destination for tourists and locals alike.
The Cristo Rei Statue is often compared to the famous Christ the Redeemer statue in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, due to its similar design and imposing size. It serves as a reminder of the religious significance of the region, as well as a symbol of gratitude for the protection offered to Portugal. Visitors can enjoy both the architectural marvel of the statue and the scenic beauty of the surrounding area.
Almada’s Cristo Rei Statue is located on the southern bank of the Tagus River, in Almada, just across the river from Lisbon. There are several ways to reach the statue, and visitors can easily get there using public transport, private car, or even a short boat ride across the river.
By Car: From Lisbon, it takes around 20-30 minutes to reach the Cristo Rei Statue by car. Drive south across the Ponte 25 de Abril (25th of April Bridge) or the Ponte Vasco da Gama bridge, both of which provide access to Almada. The statue is well-signposted, and there is a parking area at the base, though it can fill up quickly during peak tourist seasons.
Public Transport: You can take a bus or a metro to the ferry terminal at Cais do Sodré, from where you can board a ferry to Cacilhas on the southern side of the river. Once you arrive at Cacilhas, you can take a bus (number 101 or 108) or a taxi to the Cristo Rei monument. The ferry ride itself offers a beautiful view of the Tagus River and the Lisbon skyline.
By Foot or Taxi: If you’re staying in Lisbon and feel like a more adventurous route, you can walk or take a short taxi ride from the Cacilhas ferry terminal to the base of the statue. The path from the ferry terminal to the Cristo Rei monument is about a 10-minute walk, but it’s an uphill climb.
Almada enjoys a Mediterranean climate, with warm, dry summers and mild, wet winters. The best time to visit the Cristo Rei Statue is during the spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October) months when the temperatures are pleasant and the crowds are fewer. Summers can be hot, with temperatures reaching up to 30°C (86°F), making it a great time for enjoying the panoramic views, though it’s best to visit early in the day or late in the afternoon to avoid the heat.
In winter (November to February), temperatures rarely fall below 10°C (50°F), but it can get windy, especially near the statue and the river. The weather during these months is typically more unpredictable, with occasional rainfall, so it’s advisable to bring a jacket or an umbrella.
The Cristo Rei Statue is open to visitors throughout the year, and its opening times vary slightly depending on the season. The general hours are as follows:
Keep in mind that these hours are subject to change, especially around public holidays, so it’s always a good idea to check the official website before your visit. The site is closed on some major holidays like Christmas and New Year's Day, so plan accordingly if you want to visit during these times.
The Cristo Rei Statue is famous for several reasons, with its immense size and spiritual significance being the most notable. The statue itself is an exact replica of the Christ the Redeemer statue in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, and was built in the 1950s as a symbol of gratitude for Portugal being spared from the devastation of World War II.
Beyond its religious importance, the statue offers visitors some of the most stunning panoramic views of Lisbon and the Tagus River. From the viewpoint, you can see not only Lisbon but also the 25th of April Bridge, the Ponte Vasco da Gama, and the surrounding hills and coastline of the Setúbal Peninsula.
Over the years, the Cristo Rei Statue has become an iconic symbol of Portugal and is one of the country’s most visited monuments. Its combination of religious significance and breathtaking views makes it a must-see for any visitor to Lisbon or the surrounding region.
The entrance to the Cristo Rei Statue is free, but there is a small fee to access the panoramic viewpoint. The entrance fee for adults is approximately €6, while children and senior citizens can access the viewpoint for a reduced price. There are discounts for groups, so if you’re traveling with a group, inquire about rates before your visit.
Visitors can explore the base of the monument and take in the views, or if you're feeling adventurous, you can take an elevator to the top of the statue. The panoramic viewpoint at the top offers breathtaking views of the city of Lisbon, the Tagus River, and the surrounding areas. It is a popular spot for photographs, especially at sunset when the city is bathed in golden light.
The site also features a small chapel at the base of the statue, where visitors can stop and reflect or attend mass. The peaceful and spiritual atmosphere makes it a wonderful place for personal reflection or prayer.
The Cristo Rei Statue was conceived in the 1940s, a project initiated by Cardinal Cerejeira as an expression of gratitude for Portugal’s safety during World War II. The construction of the statue was funded by public donations, and it was completed in 1959. The design was inspired by the Christ the Redeemer statue in Rio de Janeiro, and both statues share a similar architectural style, with Christ outstretched on a pedestal.
The statue stands on a massive concrete pedestal, which houses a small chapel and a panoramic terrace. The pedestal reaches a height of 82 meters, while the statue itself is 28 meters tall. The total height of the monument is therefore 110 meters, making it one of the tallest structures in the region.
Architecturally, the statue is built in a traditional style with reinforced concrete, and its face is a depiction of Christ, arms extended wide in a gesture of blessing. The overall design and structure are imposing, and the size of the statue gives it a presence that dominates the skyline of the surrounding area.
The Cristo Rei Statue is not just a religious monument; it also offers several activities and experiences for visitors:
