Monumento a la Virgen de la Paz, Colossal statue in Trujillo, Venezuela
Monumento a la Virgen de la Paz is a 46.72-meter tall concrete structure standing on Peña de la Virgen hill in Trujillo, Venezuela. The figure sits atop a multi-level base that houses chapels, exhibition rooms, and a spiral staircase leading up to observation platforms inside the sculpture.
The statue was inaugurated on December 21, 1983 by President Luis Herrera Campins after architect Manuel de la Fuente designed the project. The construction followed reports of Mary appearances at this spot in the 16th century, which made the area a religious reference point for Trujillo.
The name refers to Virgin Mary appearances reported by locals on this hill in the 1570s, which turned the site into a pilgrimage destination for believers from the region. Today many pilgrims visit the statue throughout the year, especially during the feast week in late January when religious ceremonies and a peace procession take place through the town.
Visitors can reach five observation points inside, located between 18 and 44 meters high and offering views over the town and surrounding valley. The spiral staircase requires moderate fitness, and the climb can be tiring in warm weather.
It is the tallest statue in South America and holds a dove in its right hand, symbolizing Venezuela's commitment to peace. The statue weighs around 1200 tons and its steel framework was engineered to withstand strong winds at this exposed elevation.
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