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One of the landmarks you shouldn't miss when visiting Vung Tau is the towering statue of Jesus with remarkable records in height and architecture. Let's explore what makes the outstretched arms of Christ statue in Vung Tau special and how to conquer this iconic figure with Vntrip.
1. Where is the outstretched arms of Christ statue located?
The outstretched arms of Christ statue sits atop Nui Nho, also known as Tao Phung Mountain, at an elevation of 136 meters above sea level in Ward 2, Vung Tau City, Ba Ria - Vung Tau Province. With a height of 32 meters and outstretched arms spanning 18.4 meters wide, the statue was awarded the title of 'Largest Jesus Statue in Vietnam' by the Vietnam Record Center on May 15, 2016. On January 9, 2012, the Asian Record Council confirmed the statue as the 'Largest Christ Statue' in Asia. The official title was bestowed on May 26, 2012.
View of the outstretched arms of Christ statue from above. Image: Collection
The statue of Christ amidst the majestic natural scenery. Image: Collection
2. How to ascend to the outstretched arms of Christ statue
Firstly, if you're traveling by motorbike or car, you can park at the nearby parking lot, where parking is free. Contributions placed in the donation box at the parking lot will go towards the maintenance fund for the statue in the future.
To conquer the outstretched arms of Christ statue, you must overcome 811 steps to reach the statue's base – considered a challenge for devout pilgrims and those with determination and perseverance. Don't worry about the distance, as there are many resting spots along the way. The first stop offers water, coffee, hats, sandals, and souvenirs provided by the Holy Cross nuns, so if you feel tired while climbing, you can take a break here, have a drink, and then continue your journey to visit the outstretched arms of Christ statue.
You have to climb 811 steps to reach the base of the statue of Christ. Image: Collection
These resting stations are strategically located with stunning views of Vung Tau's sea. During breaks, you can enjoy the vastness of Vung Tau's sea, feel the cool breeze blowing from the sea, and watch boats sailing far offshore. Every 100 steps, there are stone benches for resting, so whenever you feel tired, take a break immediately to regain strength for the climb. Moreover, both sides of the path are adorned with numerous flowers, perfect for taking photos and checking in. The climb takes about 30 minutes.
Resting point on the journey to conquer the outstretched arms of Christ. Image: Collection
After conquering the 811 steps to reach the base of the Christ statue, you must continue climbing an additional 133 spiral steps inside the statue, 32 meters high from the base to the neck of the statue, to reach the arms and admire the panoramic view of Vung Tau city from above. This staircase is very narrow, only enough for one person to walk, and since the arms can only hold a maximum of 3 people, those who have finished visiting must descend before others can take their turn.
Spiral staircase inside the Christ statue. Image: Collection
3. What makes the outstretched arms of Christ statue beautiful?
The Christ statue was built in 1974. It stands at 32 meters tall with arms spanning 18.4 meters, offering a stunning view of the sea. The statue is placed on a 10-meter-high concrete base in the shape of an arch with the relief sculpture 'The Last Supper' at the front and 'Jesus Giving Keys to Peter' at the back. The facial features, posture, and divine aura exude immense aesthetic and artistic beauty, radiating compassion and tranquility.
The facial features, posture, and divine aura exude immense aesthetic and artistic beauty. Image: Collection
The halo around the statue's head is constructed as a lightning rod, so please refrain from touching it. The statue's robe is adorned with 3 windows with unique longevity patterns. With 3 windows, the statue's interior is always well-ventilated, and the daylight illuminates it brightly. Standing at the arms of the Christ statue, you will feel the gentle breeze from the East Sea and behold the panoramic view of Vung Tau city with its blue beaches, winding golden sands, charming houses, and famous landmarks such as Nghinh Phong cape, Hon Ba island, Thi Vai lake, and even the oldest lighthouse in Indochina.
From the arms of the Christ statue, you can admire the beautiful city of Vung Tau. Image: Collection
The outstretched arms of Christ statue not only embodies beauty, tourism, and religious beliefs but also showcases unique and creative sculptural architecture. It reflects the talent and skill of human hands that have created a magnificent structure amidst the breathtaking natural landscape. Despite being made of reinforced concrete, the aesthetic and artistic details of the Christ statue will surely leave you in awe and admiration when visiting.
The outstretched arms of Christ statue will surely leave you in awe when you visit. Image: Collection
Important note: As this is a religious site and a sacred symbol, please maintain respect and decorum, avoiding any actions that may offend religious symbols.
What are you waiting for? Gather your friends and explore Vung Tau and conquer the outstretched arms of Christ statue now! Don't forget to book cheap hotels in Vung Tau on Vntrip.
