Christ the Redeemer of the Andes, Peace monument at La Cumbre Pass, Argentina.
The bronze statue stands at an elevation of 3,832 meters (12,572 feet) on the Argentina-Chile border, featuring Christ holding a cross against the Andes backdrop. The figure reaches seven meters (23 feet) in height and rests on a massive granite pedestal measuring approximately six meters (20 feet). The monument sits at La Cumbre Pass and marks the watershed between the Atlantic and Pacific oceans. The right hand of the statue is raised, while the left holds the cross, and the face looks westward toward Chile.
The monument was inaugurated on March 13, 1904, with approximately 3,000 people from both nations gathering to celebrate the resolution of border disputes. Argentine sculptor Mateo Alonso created the bronze figure in Buenos Aires, while Chilean architect Pedro Subercaseaux melted down cannons from both armies to provide material for the work. The idea originated from journalist and peace activist Angela de Oliveira Cézar de Costa, who served as a mediator between both countries. A subsequent restoration took place in 1993, including renewal of the cross.
The inscription at the base declares that the mountains will turn to dust before Argentinians and Chileans break their peace commitment. The monument reminds both nations of the resolution of their border conflicts and stands as a symbol of diplomatic solutions over military confrontation. Visitors from both countries come here to honor the friendship between the neighboring states and reflect on the importance of peaceful coexistence. The statue is regarded by both governments as an important symbol of bilateral relations and is regularly mentioned during official occasions.
Access to the monument requires a 9-kilometer (5.6-mile) drive from Las Cuevas village and is only possible during summer months due to weather conditions. The road to the pass is unpaved and requires a sturdy vehicle, as it features steep switchbacks with narrow sections. Warm clothing is essential, as temperatures remain cool even in summer and strong winds are frequent. Visitors should arrive early in the day to avoid afternoon storms and bring sufficient water, as there are no facilities on site.
The sculptor used melted metal from cannons of both armies for the statue, with four tons of bronze recovered from military weapons. A repair in 1993 was necessary after extreme temperatures of minus 30 degrees Celsius (-22 degrees Fahrenheit) damaged the cross. The inscription on the pedestal was composed by Chilean historian and poet Enrique Molina. The entire construction weighs over six tons, and transporting the parts to the mountain summit required several weeks using mules and oxcarts.
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