Many people are surprised to learn that there is a towering statue of Christ in the small coastal town of Maratea, in southern Italy. While statues of Christ are often linked with major cities or famous pilgrimage sites, this one rises above a quiet stretch of coastline and mountains.
The statue is one of the most important landmarks in southern Italy and has become a strong symbol of Maratea itself, visible from far along the Tyrrhenian coast.
A Brief History of the Site
Before the statue was built, the summit of Monte San Biagio near the town of Maratea held an iron cross erected in 1907. This cross served as a war memorial for those who lost their lives during the 1806 invasion of Naples.
Because of its exposed position, the iron cross was frequently struck by lightning and damaged during storms. Repairs were needed again and again.
In 1942, the local Podestà and later mayor, Biagio Vitolo, proposed replacing the iron cross with a more durable structure made of cement and fitted with lightning conductors. During this same period, work began on the winding asphalt road that would allow easier access to the summit.
What Is the Christ the Redeemer of Maratea?
The statue is officially known as Cristo Redentore di Maratea. It is a statue of Jesus Christ carved from pure Carrara marble.
It stands on Monte San Biagio, high above the town, looking out over the landscape below. The statue was completed in 1965 and has watched over Maratea ever since.
Who Created the Statue and Why
The statue was sculpted by the Florentine artist Bruno Innocenti. The project was commissioned by Count Stefano Rivetti di Val Cervo.
The idea came to Rivetti during a trip to Brazil, when he went to Rio de Janeiro and saw the famous Christ statue there. Inspired by what he saw, he decided to create a similar monument in Italy, one that would become a lasting symbol for Maratea.
Size and Design of the Statue
The Christ the Redeemer of Maratea is one of the tallest statues of Jesus in Europe and the world. It stands 21.20 metres high.
The head alone measures 3 metres in height, while the arm span reaches 19 metres from fingertip to fingertip.
Carrara marble was chosen for its pale colour, which reflects both sunlight and moonlight. This gives the statue a soft glow and helps it stand out against the sky, while also symbolising purity and devotion.
The goal was not to copy the Brazilian statue, but to create a work that suited the natural setting of the mountain and blended with the surrounding landscape. After two years of work, the statue was completed and installed in 1965.
Visiting the Statue
Reaching the statue is part of the experience. The drive leading up the mountain is dramatic, with a series of sharp hairpin bends. The final section of the road rests on raised piers, adding to the sense of height and scale.
After a certain point up the mountain the statue is only accessible by foot, and a gentle uphill walkway leads towards the statue and the Basilica. Along the way, visitors pass the ruins of the ancient Maratea Castle, which was destroyed by French forces after a long siege in December 1806.
At the foot of the statue is a lookout area that offers a full 360-degree view. From here, visitors can see the outline of the Tyrrhenian coast as well as the inland mountains behind Maratea.
This viewpoint is widely considered the most scenic spot in the entire area and is one of the main reasons people make the journey to the summit.
The Basilica of San Biagio
The statue stands directly in front of the Basilica of San Biagio, which dates back to 732 AD.
The Basilica houses the relics of San Biagio, the patron saint of Maratea. It can be visited throughout the day, except during times when religious services are being held, and visitors are asked to show respect as it remains an active place of worship.
About Maratea
The town of Maratea itself is located in the region of Basilicata, in the province of Potenza. It is the only town in the region with direct access to the Tyrrhenian Sea.
The town is well known for its many churches and chapels and is often referred to as a place with a strong religious heritage. Maratea is also included in I Borghi più belli d’Italia, a group that recognises some of Italy’s most beautiful villages.
When to Visit
One of the most meaningful times to visit is during the Feast of St Blaise, when the area takes on a special atmosphere.
Early morning and dusk are also memorable times to walk around the site, when the light is softer and the surroundings are quieter.
This video shows a quick tour of the statue as well as the beautiful surroundings:
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