Christ the King (Lubango)

Christ the King (Cristo Rei in Portuguese) is a prominent monument located in Lubango, Angola. It is a statue of Jesus Christ with arms outstretched, similar in design to Christ the Redeemer in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. The statue sits atop a high pedestal and offers panoramic views of the city of Lubango and the surrounding landscape.

Constructed between 1957 and 1966 during the Portuguese colonial era, Christ the King in Lubango served as a symbol of Portuguese presence and faith in the region. Despite Angola's subsequent independence and periods of conflict, the monument has remained a significant landmark and a popular tourist attraction.

The statue is made of concrete and is a smaller-scale version of the iconic Christ the Redeemer. While its design is influenced by the Brazilian statue, the Lubango version has its own distinct characteristics and local significance. It is considered an important religious and cultural symbol for the local population, representing faith, hope, and peace.

The site is accessible by road and is frequently visited by both locals and tourists. The area around the monument has been developed to accommodate visitors, with viewpoints and spaces for reflection. Over time, Christ the King in Lubango has become an integral part of the city's identity and a testament to its history.