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Drawing of the Christ of the Abyss statue

Christ Of The Abyss

Rapallo, Italy

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Comprehensive Guide to Visiting Cristo degli Abissi, Rapallo, Italy

Date: 31/07/2024

Introduction

Nestled within the serene waters of the Mediterranean Sea, the Cristo degli Abissi, or Christ of the Abyss, stands as a unique underwater monument located off the coast of San Fruttuoso, between Camogli and Portofino on the Italian Riviera. This captivating bronze statue, submerged at a depth of approximately 17 meters, was conceived as a tribute to the sea and those who have lost their lives within it. The statue’s origins date back to 1954 when Italian diving instructor Duilio Marcante proposed the idea to honor his friend Dario Gonzatti, a pioneer in the use of SCUBA gear, who tragically died in a diving accident nearby (Wikipedia). Sculpted by Guido Galletti, the statue depicts Christ with outstretched arms, symbolizing peace and protection for those who venture into the sea (Atlas Obscura). Over the years, the Cristo degli Abissi has garnered global recognition, inspiring several replicas worldwide and becoming a significant pilgrimage site for divers. This comprehensive guide delves into the history, cultural significance, and practical aspects of visiting this remarkable underwater monument, providing travelers with essential information and travel tips to make the most of their visit.

Table of Contents

History of Cristo degli Abissi

Origins and Installation

The Cristo degli Abissi was sculpted by Guido Galletti and installed on August 22, 1954, at a depth of approximately 17 meters (56 feet) (Atlas Obscura). The idea for the statue was conceived by Italian diving instructor Duilio Marcante to commemorate his friend Dario Gonzatti, the first Italian to use SCUBA gear, who died in a diving accident near the site in 1947 (Wikipedia).

Design and Symbolism

Standing 2.5 meters (8 feet) tall, the statue depicts Christ offering a benediction of peace, with his head and hands raised skyward. This pose symbolizes a blessing of peace and protection for those who venture into the sea (Atlas Obscura). The statue, cast in bronze, has become a significant symbol for the diving community, serving as a memorial for those who have lost their lives at sea.

Restoration Efforts

Over the years, the statue has faced significant wear and tear due to the corrosive effects of seawater and the growth of marine organisms. In 2003, the statue was temporarily removed from the water for restoration. Experts addressed the corrosion and replaced a hand that had been detached, presumably by an anchor. The statue was returned to its underwater home with a new base on July 17, 2004 (Wikipedia). Regular underwater cleaning is conducted to manage the buildup of patina on the surface (Atlas Obscura).

Cultural and Religious Significance

The Cristo degli Abissi has become a pilgrimage site for divers and a symbol of peace and protection for those who venture into the sea. The statue’s poignant symbolism and its underwater location make it a unique and revered monument. A replica of the statue can be seen in the church next to the San Fruttuoso Abbey, allowing non-divers to appreciate its significance (Italy Heaven).

Global Influence and Replicas

The original Cristo degli Abissi has inspired several replicas around the world. One notable replica is located in Key Largo, Florida, and was the third of its kind cast from the original Italian mold (Atlas Obscura). Other replicas can be found in the port of St. George on the Caribbean island of Grenada and in the Lake of Palú near the Swiss and Austrian borders (Italy Beyond the Obvious).

The Abbey of San Fruttuoso

The Cristo degli Abissi is located near the Abbey of San Fruttuoso, a historic monastery that overlooks the bay. The abbey itself has a rich history, dating back to the 10th century. It went into decline in the 17th century and was partially used for keeping sheep. In 1730, Camillo Doria restored the abbey and returned the church to liturgical use. The Italian state restored parts of the abbey damaged by flooding in 1915, and in 1983, the Doria Pamphili family donated the San Fruttuoso complex to the heritage organization FAI (Fondo Ambiente Italiano). Restoration of the buildings started in 1985 and was completed in 2017 (That’s Liguria).

Visiting Cristo degli Abissi

Access and Transportation

San Fruttuoso is accessible only by sea or on foot, as there are no vehicular roads leading to the site. Ferries operate year-round from nearby towns, but visitors can also choose to arrive by kayak for a more eco-sustainable and immersive experience (Outdoor Portofino). The statue is located about 300 meters from the main beach, making it accessible for divers, snorkelers, and even curious swimmers.

Diving and Snorkeling

Diving to see the Cristo degli Abissi is considered an easy dive due to its relatively shallow depth of 17 meters. Local dive shops in Portofino offer organized excursions to the site (Italy Beyond the Obvious). The statue’s size and the clarity of the surrounding waters make it visible even from the surface, attracting free divers and snorkelers alike (Outdoor Portofino).

Hiking Trails

For those who prefer to reach San Fruttuoso by land, several hiking trails lead to the site from San Rocco, Portofino Vetta, and Portofino. These trails offer scenic views of the Ligurian coast and the Mediterranean vegetation, making the journey to the abbey and the Cristo degli Abissi a memorable experience (Outdoor Portofino).

Visitor Information

Visiting Hours and Tickets

Cristo degli Abissi can be visited any time of the year, but diving conditions are best from May to September. No tickets are required to see the statue underwater. However, if you prefer guided tours or diving excursions, these services are available from local dive shops in Portofino, with prices varying depending on the package chosen (Outdoor Portofino).

Special Events and Guided Tours

Special diving events and underwater photography contests are occasionally held, offering unique opportunities to explore and document the statue in the company of experienced divers (Italy Beyond the Obvious). Check with local dive shops or tourism websites for the latest event schedules.

Environmental Impact and Conservation

The Cristo degli Abissi is located within the Marine Protected Area of Portofino, a region known for its rich biodiversity and pristine waters. The protected status of the area helps preserve the marine environment and the statue itself. Conservation efforts include regular cleaning of the statue to prevent the buildup of marine organisms and corrosion (Atlas Obscura).

FAQ

What are the visiting hours for Cristo degli Abissi?

  • The statue can be visited any time of the year, with diving conditions being best from May to September.

How do I get to Cristo degli Abissi?

  • San Fruttuoso is accessible by sea or on foot. Ferries operate year-round from nearby towns, or you can arrive by kayak.

Are there any tickets required to visit Cristo degli Abissi?

  • No tickets are required to see the statue underwater. Guided tours and diving excursions are available from local dive shops with varying prices.

Conclusion

The Cristo degli Abissi is not only a significant cultural and religious monument but also a testament to the enduring connection between humanity and the sea. Its history, from its conception and installation to its ongoing conservation, reflects the dedication of the diving community and the broader efforts to preserve underwater heritage. Visitors to San Fruttuoso can experience this unique site through diving, snorkeling, or simply appreciating the replica in the nearby abbey, making it a must-visit destination on the Italian Riviera.

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References

  • Atlas Obscura. (n.d.). Christ of the Abyss. Atlas Obscura
  • Wikipedia Contributors. (n.d.). Christ of the Abyss. In Wikipedia, The Free Encyclopedia. Wikipedia
  • Italy Magazine. (2020). Christ of the Abyss, Liguria. Italy Magazine
  • Italy Beyond the Obvious. (n.d.). Christ of the Abyss. Italy Beyond the Obvious
  • Outdoor Portofino. (n.d.). Christ of the Abyss: How to Visit and More. Outdoor Portofino
  • Italy Heaven. (n.d.). San Fruttuoso. Italy Heaven
  • That’s Liguria. (n.d.). San Fruttuoso: A Monastery and One of the Most Beautiful Beaches in Liguria. That’s Liguria
  • italien.blog. (n.d.). San Fruttuoso Abbey and the Cristo dei Abissi. italien.blog
  • italian-riviera.com. (n.d.). Abbazia di San Fruttuoso. italian-riviera.com

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