Translating to Christ the King, this 26 meter tall statue of Jesus sits west of Cali on top of Cerro de los Cristales (Hill of the Crystals); so called because of large of amount of quartz crystals found in the area.
Erected in 1953 to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the end of the War of a Thousand Days, this iron and concrete behemoth that looms over the city of Cali.
The route up to the statue is graced with the sculpted work known as the biblical scenes of Golgotha. The artist, Carlos Andrés Gómez, used cement and clay to sculpt figures from 50cm to 5m and they extend over 5km. Considered to be one of the wonders of Colombia, this series arguably steals the show from Cristo Rey at the top of the hill.
Neither Cristo Rey nor the biblical scenes of Golgotha cost money – it is a worthwhile visit though, if for no other reason than getting a great view.
