Christ of the Abyss

Christ of the Abyss (Il Cristo degli Abissi) is a submerged bronze statue of Jesus Christ, the original of which is located in the Mediterranean Sea, off San Fruttuoso, between Camogli and Portofino on the Italian Riviera. It was placed in the water on 22 August 1954 at approximately 17 metres depth, and stands c. 2.5 metres tall.

History

The statue was created by Guido Galletti following an idea of Italian diver Duilio Marcante. The statue was placed near the spot where Dario Gonzatti, the first Italian to use SCUBA gear, died in 1947. It depicts Christ offering a blessing of peace, with his head and hands raised skyward.

Replicas

Due to increasing popularity of the statue, it was removed from the water and restored in 2003 due to corrosion and the growth of crustaceans. A hand that had been detached by an anchor was also replaced. The statue was returned to the sea with a new base on 17 July 2004.

Replicas of the statue have been made. One such replica is located in St. George, Grenada. It was placed underwater in 1961 and is a popular attraction for both snorkelers and divers. Another replica is located in the waters off Key Largo, Florida, and is a popular site for divers.

Cultural Impact

The Christ of the Abyss has become a popular site for divers and a symbol for the protection of marine life. It has been referenced in popular culture and is a popular tourist attraction.

See Also

• Underwater diving
• Marine conservation
• Bronze sculpture