Statue of Christ the Redeemer – an icon of Basilicata

History and description

Originally conceived from a wrought‑iron cross commemorating the French siege of 1806, the statue was later rebuilt in concrete. It was commissioned in the 1950s by Stefano Rivetti di Val Cervo, who entrusted the work to Bruno Innocenti and Luigi Musumeci. Construction lasted about three years and was completed in 1965, resulting in a sculpture approximately 21.13 meters high, made of reinforced concrete and Carrara marble. Resting on the rock, it presents a modern interpretation of Christ, facing the Basilica of San Biagio.

Curiosities

Recognized as one of the most imposing statues in Europe, it is often considered the twin of the one in Rio de Janeiro.

Access

The statue can be visited year‑round free of charge. At night, it is illuminated, creating a particularly striking effect.

How to reach it

The monument can be reached by car, using the paid parking area at Madonna della Neve, or on foot along the designated path.

Dominating the Gulf of Policastro from Mount San Biagio, the Christ the Redeemer of Maratea is one of the most beautiful sculptures in Basilicata, set against an incredible panoramic backdrop.

Photo credits: Aniello Bizzoco (Wikipedia) - Licensed by CC 4.0