Colombia is preparing to become the setting for one of the most ambitious religious tourism projects in Latin America, with the construction of the largest Christ the Redeemer statue in the world in El Peñol, in the department of Antioquia. The Cristo del Embalse will be a monumental statue reaching 86 meters in height, which would make it the largest representation of Christ on the planet.
The monumental structure will far surpass international landmarks such as the famous Christ the Redeemer in Rio de Janeiro, which stands at 38 meters tall. The project aims to position Colombia as a global destination for spiritual and cultural tourism while also strengthening the region’s economic development.
The sculpture is part of a tourism complex promoted by the Montecielo Group and is being built in the rural area of Guamito, near the reservoir that has gained recognition for its tourism potential. Construction began in 2024, and the monument is expected to be completed between late 2026 and early 2027.
Cristo del Embalse of El Peñol: the world’s largest Christ the Redeemer monument
Beyond its impressive dimensions, the Cristo del Embalse carries deep symbolic meaning for the local community. The statue represents the resilience of the municipality following one of the most significant moments in its history: The disappearance of the old town of El Peñol, which was submerged when the reservoir that now defines the landscape of the region was created.
The monument will be accompanied by a 28-level building shaped like a cross, designed to symbolize the rebirth of the municipality and its transformation over time. This structure will allow visitors to explore different spaces that tell the story of the town and its relationship with the reservoir.
In addition, the complex will include areas dedicated to religious pilgrimages, cultural spaces, and tourism activities. The combination of spirituality, history, and nature aims to turn the site into a meeting point for visitors from around the world.
Another innovative aspect of the project is the use of 3D printing technology in certain parts of the sculpture, particularly the head of the monument, allowing for greater precision in structural details during construction.
@montecielo.co Un monumento que no necesita edición, que no necesita música… Todo un sueño hecho realidad: PRIMERA EXHIBICIÓN DEL CRISTO MÁS GRANDE DEM MUNDO. Gracias Dios… nada de esto puede ser coincidencia, estamos marcando un hito no solo para Grupo Montecielo si no para el mundo entero 🌎
Investment in the project and job creation
The construction of the Cristo del Embalse is intended not only to become a new tourist icon but also to serve as an engine for economic development in the region. According to the Montecielo Group, the project has already generated around 700 direct jobs during its initial construction phases, mainly in engineering, construction, logistics, and administration.
Beyond construction-related jobs, employment is expected to increase once the tourism complex begins operating, particularly in sectors such as tourism services, hospitality, commerce, and cultural activities.
The initiative involves an investment of approximately US$60 million, allocated not only to the monumental statue but also to the tourism infrastructure surrounding it. Complementary projects include a hotel resort, a shopping center with 76 stores, panoramic viewpoints, and cultural spaces.
A panoramic cable car system is also planned, with a possible opening in December 2027, allowing visitors to enjoy spectacular views of the reservoir and the surrounding mountainous landscape.
A new tourism destination for Colombia
The project could have a significant impact on tourism in the department of Antioquia. Projections indicate that once the complex is fully operational, it could attract up to 3.5 million visitors per year, boosting the economy of nearby municipalities.
Established tourist destinations such as Guatape and the iconic Piedra del Peñol may benefit from the increased flow of visitors, strengthening local commerce, gastronomy, and the hospitality sector.
However, the megaproject also presents important challenges. The expected growth in tourism will require improvements in road infrastructure, transportation systems, and environmental management to protect the natural surroundings of the reservoir.