Christ the King Sanctuary, also known as the Santuário de Cristo Rei, is a monument on the Alto do Pragal in Almada, on the southern bank of the Tagus River opposite Lisbon. Its centrepiece is a statue of Jesus Christ, 110 metres tall, with arms outstretched towards the city. The figure was inspired by Rio de Janeiro's Christ the Redeemer, and it stands as one of the most recognisable landmarks in the Lisbon area.
What the visit offers
The main reason to come is the view. From the sanctuary grounds, visitors look across the river to Lisbon, with the city's hills, rooftops and the wide water of the Tagus laid out below. The setting is calm and open, and it suits an unhurried visit, especially at a time of day when the light falls across the city.
The sanctuary is also an important pilgrimage site, so visitors may find people gathered there for prayer and reflection. Many come simply to see the statue up close and take in the surroundings.
Planning your trip
- Address: Alto do Pragal, 2800-058 Almada, Portugal
- Phone: +351 212 751 000
- Getting there: Almada sits across the river from Lisbon, so the sanctuary is best reached as a trip from the capital, combining a crossing of the Tagus with a visit to the hilltop.
Because the monument stands on a height above the river, it makes a natural stop for anyone spending time in the Lisbon area who wants a broad view of the city from a different side of the water. It works well alongside a day of exploring Almada and its surroundings.