Did you know Italy has its own Christ the Redeemer statue? Tucked away along the dazzling Tyrrhenian coastline, the Cristo Redentore of Maratea rises 21 meters tall (about 70 feet) on top of Mount San Biagio.
While Rio de Janeiro’s statue usually steals the spotlight, this Italian wonder remains one of Europe’s best-kept secrets.
I stumbled across this hidden gem during a coastal road trip in southern Italy. Crafted from brilliant white Carrara marble, the statue overlooks Maratea and the sparkling sea below.
To reach it, you can hop on a quick shuttle for 1 euro or hike uphill for about 10 minutes from the parking lot, which costs roughly 5 euros per hour.
What makes this place special isn’t just the towering statue, but those epic 360-degree views from 640 meters above the sea. On clear days, you can see the entire Gulf of Policastro—seriously, it’s a photographer’s dream and barely any international travelers know about it.
If you’re looking to get off the beaten path in Italy, you should put this mountaintop marvel on your list.
Discovering the Christ of the Tyrrhenian
Cristo Redentore stands tall on Mount San Biagio, gazing out over the Tyrrhenian coastline. The monument has become a symbol of Maratea, drawing visitors from all over—some come for the spiritual vibe, others just want the killer views.
History of the Maratea Statue
I was honestly surprised to learn the Cristo Redentore of Maratea was finished in 1965. Bruno Innocenti, a sculptor from Florence, designed the statue using white Carrara marble.
At 21 meters (70 feet) tall, it’s the tallest sculpture in Italy. Unlike the Rio statue with its outstretched arms, Maratea’s Christ welcomes you with open arms that almost seem to invite you in.
The statue sits on Mount San Biagio, about 600 meters above sea level, so you can spot it from miles away along the coast. Getting up there felt like an adventure in itself.
Symbolic Meaning and Cultural Significance
Cristo Redentore isn’t just a pretty landmark—it holds a lot of spiritual weight for locals. The statue represents divine protection for Maratea and the whole region.
I noticed it faces the Tyrrhenian Sea, like it’s blessing both the land and the water. That’s no accident; it’s meant to symbolize Christ watching over travelers and fishermen.
Locals see the statue as part of their identity and heritage. During religious festivals, especially in summer, people gather around the monument for celebrations and ceremonies.
What struck me was how the site draws both pilgrims and people just searching for inspiration from its presence and setting.
Maratea: The Pearl of the Tyrrhenian Sea
Visiting Maratea made me understand why people call it “The Pearl of the Tyrrhenian.” This lovely town sits between Naples and Calabria and feels like a breath of fresh air compared to Italy’s busier spots.
Unlike the jam-packed Amalfi Coast, Maratea keeps its authentic charm with a medieval village center, clean beaches, and rugged mountains all around. The town has 44 churches, which seems wild considering how small it is.
I think the sweet spot for a visit is late spring or early fall—perfect weather, and you avoid the summer rush. The coastline offers amazing swimming spots with crystal-clear water.
Tourism here feels lighter and more sustainable than in other Italian coastal towns. Most people come for the Christ statue, then end up discovering Maratea’s other treasures.
The Journey to Maratea’s Mountaintop
The winding road up to Maratea’s Christ the Redeemer delivers jaw-dropping views and a few hair-raising switchbacks. I loved how every turn revealed a new slice of the Tyrrhenian coastline.
Choosing the Best Route
I’d suggest taking the coastal SS18 highway for the most scenic approach. The drive hugs the Tyrrhenian Sea and already puts you in a good mood before you even start climbing.
From Maratea’s harbor, just follow the signs to “Cristo Redentore” or “Monte San Biagio.” The mountain road is narrow but in good shape, with plenty of hairpin turns.
If you’re driving, a smaller car makes those curves easier. I found mornings the best time to go—less traffic and clearer views.
No car? Local shuttle buses run from Maratea town to the statue in peak season. Adventurous types can hike up the mountain, winding through lush greenery.
Tips for Reaching the Summit
Bring some water and snacks since there’s not much in the way of services along the route. The weather can feel different on the mountain, so I always pack a light jacket, even in summer.
When driving, use low gears for the steeper bits and don’t rush those switchbacks. Stop at the viewpoints—they’re there for a reason.
If you’re hiking:
- Wear sturdy shoes with a grip
- Start early to dodge the afternoon heat
- Plan for 2-3 hours to get up there
- Bring sunblock and something for rain, just in case
The last stretch to the statue has some steps and uneven ground, so comfy shoes are a must, even if you drive most of the way.
What to Expect on the Road
The road up to Cristo Redentore twists through Mediterranean brush and wildflowers—springtime is especially gorgeous with colors everywhere.
I spotted tiny shrines and old stone walls along the way, hinting at the area’s deep history. Every now and then, the Tyrrhenian Sea pops into view between the mountains.
Traffic changes a lot depending on the season. In summer, you’ll see more people, but when I went in April, I pretty much had the road to myself.
The drive takes about 20-30 minutes from Maratea town, depending on how often you stop to soak in the scenery.
Nearby Destinations: Matera and Beyond
The Christ statue is Maratea’s big draw, but the countryside nearby is just as rewarding. The ancient cave city of Matera sits about two hours inland, with sassi (cave dwellings) that people have lived in for thousands of years.
The hills between Maratea and Matera show off a quieter side of Italy, dotted with villages, olive groves, and vineyards.
Closer to Maratea, I’d check out:
- The untouched beaches of Acquafredda
- The colorful harbor at Porto di Maratea
- The hidden valley of Valle del Noce
- Dino Island, just off Praia a Mare, if you’re up for a little island hopping
Drive north along the coast and you’ll hit Cilento National Park. Go south and you’ll find Calabria’s wild landscapes and clear blue waters.
Capturing the Iconic Views
Photographing Maratea’s Christ the Redeemer is a treat—honestly, some of the best photo ops I’ve found in Italy. The statue, the mountain, and the endless sea combine for a scene that’s hard to beat.
The Best Photo Spots
I’ve learned that the small plaza in front of Christ’s open arms gives you the absolute best angle. You get the full height of the statue set against the sky.
For a unique perspective, walk around and shoot from below—the statue looks massive against the clouds.
The viewing platform on the east side lets you frame both the statue and the coastline in one shot. Early mornings are golden—literally, the sun bathes the white marble in a warm glow.
There’s also a little stone path that leads downhill from the main area. It’s usually quieter and gives you a shot where the statue looks like it’s blessing the whole coast.
Landscape and Panoramic Photography
At 2,000 feet above the sea, the panoramic potential up here is off the charts. If you have a wide-angle lens, bring it—you’ll want to capture the full sweep of coastline, mountains, and sea.
For the most dramatic landscape shots, aim for the golden hour, either just after sunrise or right before sunset. The light is softer, the shadows are longer, and everything just feels a little more magical.
On clear days, you can see for miles along the coast. A polarizing filter helps cut glare and makes the blues pop against the green hills.
Weather changes the mood up here all the time. I actually love it when there are some clouds—sunbeams break through and spotlight different parts of the coastline.
Tips for Taking Stunning Portraits
The statue is an epic backdrop for portraits. I usually stand about 20 feet from the base to get both the person and the full statue in the frame.
Late afternoon is best for lighting—faces look warmer, and you avoid harsh shadows. Soft light just makes everything feel more inviting.
Look for natural frames—stone walls, mountain ridges, the coastline. They add context and interest to your shots.
On bright days, find some open shade for your subjects. You’ll get even lighting and still keep the gorgeous background.
Shooting Videos and Timelapses
The moving clouds and shifting light make this spot perfect for time-lapse videos. I set my camera on a tripod near the edge of the viewing area to catch the clouds drifting past the statue or shadows sliding across the valley.
If you can, do a circular timelapse around the statue for a dynamic effect. Start early and let your camera work all day to capture the changing light.
For video, a gimbal stabilizer helps a lot since it gets breezy up there. Walking slowly around the viewpoint creates a cinematic reveal of the coast.
If you have a drone and it’s allowed, you’ll get some wild footage—nothing else captures the contrast of white marble, green mountains, and blue sea quite like an aerial shot.
Using and Finding the Perfect Visuals
If you want to capture the Christ of the Tyrrhenian in all its glory, a bit of visual planning goes a long way. The right photos can transport you to this hidden Italian wonder before you even set foot there.
Exploring Stock Images and Editorial Collections
When I was prepping for my Maratea trip, I found tons of stock images showing the statue from every angle. Sites like Dreamstime have big collections of Cristo Redentore photos.
I’d suggest searching for “Maratea Christ” or “Cristo Redentore” and filtering by type to get either drone shots or ground-level views.
Some of the best images show the statue’s arms wide against the blue sea. Editorial collections sometimes include photos from local festivals or special events with cool lighting around the statue.
Contributor Insights and Extended Licenses
Local photographers really nail the authentic views of the statue in different seasons and lights. I chatted with a few contributors who gave me insider tips for shooting the monument.
For my travel blog, I needed extended licenses for some images so I could use them commercially and show off the destination in my own way.
Watch out for AI-generated content—while it’s getting better, those images often miss the real details that make Maratea unique. I always look for photos where the light falls naturally, casting real shadows across the statue’s face.
Image Orientation and Resolution Tips
Vertical images capture the full height of the 21-meter statue. If you want to show off its scale against the mountain, that’s the way to go.
For those sweeping views with both the statue and coastline, I always flip my camera to horizontal.
Honestly, I once tried using lower resolution shots, and they just didn’t do the statue’s face or hands any favors. If you’re printing, stick to at least 300 DPI.
Price can jump a lot based on resolution and license. In my experience, the mid-range options usually hit that sweet spot between quality and cost for travel planning.
If you want the statue with a coastal backdrop, aim for photos during “golden hour.” That Mediterranean light? It makes the white statue glow right against the deep blue sea.
Curating Your Experience
When you plan a visit to Maratea’s Christ the Redeemer statue, a little prep goes a long way. The right timing and mindset can really turn an average trip into something special.
Best Time to Visit for Gorgeous Landscapes
Early morning—think 7 to 9 AM—has always felt the most magical to me. The soft, golden light just washes the white Carrara marble in warmth and makes for photos you’ll want to keep.
Late afternoon, around 4 to 6 PM, the sun sets over the Tyrrhenian Sea. The blue water pops against the green mountains. It’s dramatic, honestly.
Timing matters. May and June burst with wildflowers on the slopes. September and October? Clear skies, fewer crowds, and nothing blocking your view.
The weather can change the vibe. Always check the forecast before heading up. Cloudy days sometimes create this mystical scene, with the statue rising from the mist. On a clear day, you might spot Sicily way out on the horizon.
Safe Search and Content Filters
If you’re bringing the family, good news—the path to the statue works for all ages, though you’ll want to keep an eye out in a few spots.
They keep the viewing platform in great shape, with sturdy safety barriers, so it feels safe for kids if they’re supervised.
Photographers, keep in mind: winds can get wild up there. I always use a neck strap and make sure nothing can blow away.
If you’re searching online before your trip, most info about the Maratea statue is family-friendly. Still, I recommend using search filters if you’re looking for images featuring kids, just to be safe.
Local guides run tours that mix history with fun stories, and they know how to keep all ages interested.
Including People and Diversity in Your Photos
Adding people to your photos gives the statue scale and a human touch. I love snapping shots of folks of all ages to show just how huge the statue is.
When I photograph groups, I usually have them stand a bit off-center, with the statue in the background. It draws attention to both the people and the monument.
You’ll see visitors from everywhere, which makes for some fantastic, diverse photos. I’ve caught everything from big families to solo travelers and tourist groups from all over.
Morning light brings out faces and details. If you’re into silhouettes, late afternoon is your moment.
Always ask before taking pictures of strangers, especially kids. Most people are happy to help or swap photo ops.
Exploring Local Nature and Outdoor Activities
The mountain setting gives you way more than just a statue. I spent a whole day wandering the trails that wind all over San Biagio mountain.
I stumbled onto hidden viewpoints. The Mediterranean vegetation here feels so lush—honestly, it surprised me.
Rock formations near the statue create perfect frames for photos. You can really see the volcanic history in the wild textures and bold colors.
If you love water, you’ll find beaches below with ridiculously clear blue water. A swim after hiking the mountain? It’s hard to beat that.
This mix of mountain and sea activities makes Maratea stand out. I don’t know many places where you get both in a single day.
On a guided nature walk, I learned about local plant species and wildlife. I even spotted a few endemic birds circling the statue’s outstretched arms.
You’ll want to pack good shoes if you plan to explore beyond the main viewing spots. The statue plaza is easy to reach, but those trails get rough, especially under the summer sun, so bring water too.
