Colombia is preparing to build what could soon become the largest Christ the Redeemer statue in the world. The massive project, known as the Cristo del Embalse, is currently under construction in El Peñol, located near the famous reservoir region outside Guatapé.

Once completed, the monument is expected to stand 86 metres tall, more than doubling the height of the iconic Christ the Redeemer statue in Brazil. The ambitious project aims to transform the region into one of Latin America’s premier religious and cultural tourism destinations.

Beyond its size, the monument carries deep historical symbolism for the local community. It honours the resilience of El Peñol after the original town was submerged decades ago during the creation of the nearby reservoir. The statue will be accompanied by a 28-level cross-shaped building featuring cultural exhibits, pilgrimage areas, panoramic viewpoints, and tourism attractions connected to the history of the region.

Developers say the US$60 million project has already created hundreds of jobs and is expected to generate major economic growth through tourism, hospitality, and local businesses once completed between late 2026 and early 2027. Plans also include a cable car system, hotel resort, shopping centre, and cultural spaces surrounding the site.

If projections hold true, the Cristo del Embalse could attract millions of visitors annually and become one of Colombia’s most recognizable landmarks.