Cristo Rei

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After visiting the Palace of Marqueesses of Fronteira, we had a short break at Kaffeehaus. The next half of the day was spent at Cristo Rei and Cacilhas. Cristo Rei is one the most iconic monuments in Lisbon. A statue of Jesus Christ on the 80 metre high platform is located on the south bank of Tejo estuary. It was inspired by the Christ the Redeemer in Rio and built in the 1950s to thank God for sparing the country from entering the World War II.

We saw Cristo Rei from different parts of Lisbon.  The first sight was from the window of our apartment.  In the night, it is illuminated with different colours.  Other occasions of seeing the giant statue from far are strolling along the river bank on the north, near the Golden suspension bridge and on the way back from Setubal.


To visit Cristo Rei, one needs a ferry ride and a bus ride. The ferry departs from Cais do Sodre train and metro station (the last stop of the green line).  It is quite frequent during the day.  The 15-minute journey across the river is very beautiful and provides a different view of the Lisbon coastline.


Upon arrival at Cacilhas ferry terminal, just walk over to the connected bus station to catch bus 101. The journey is about 20 minutes and will take you to the entrance of Cristo Rei.

If you prefer walking upon getting off the ferry, you can go via the coastline to reach the Boca do Vento lift. After getting out of the lift, carry on walking straight on through the village. On the main street you will see a sign "Cristo Rei".

At the base of the monument is a very simple chapel of Nossa Senhora da Paz.  Many colourful modern paintings decorate the small chapel. The hidden theme of love can be observed.  One is in memory of the old pope, John Paul II.


The statue of Jesus Christ is 28 metre high. Giant Jesus spread his arms blessing the cities.  His look is full of mercy and kindness. Apart from the pilgrim of Jesus, visitors can have magnificent panoramic views over Lisbon and the surroundings, including the suspension bridge, as far as the hills of the Serra de Sintra and Serra de Arrabida.


 
 
 
 
 

When we left the statue and went back to the base. We still spent the last moments over the hills to compose photos with the cross and Mary.


On the way to the bus station, you will pass by a building complex. There you can choose to rest, eat or a water break prior to taking the bus back to the ferry terminal.

Then we headed back to the ferry terminal and visited the beautiful Cacilhas coastline and enjoyed a wonderful seafood dinner with breathtaking views.



Location: Alto do Pragal, Av. Cristo Rei, 2800-058 Almada, Portugal

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