The Christ of Otero

It’s the second highest statue of Jesus Christ in the world, after Cristo de Ipanema in Brasil. It’s one of the statues that I liked best in Palencia. It’s a symbol of the city, as it works like a compass or guide when you return from any trip outside the city. It’s the first thing you seen when heading towards Palencia.

The statue was built by Victorio Macho in 1931 and stands 20 meters tall.

At the feet of Christ the Saint Mary of Otero chapel is found. The entire complex including the statue and the Otero hill is 850 meters high.

From the top of Otero hill, at the feet of the massive Jesus Christ statue, you can see all of Palencia. It’s spectacular during the day, but even better at night, when the lights make everything that much more beautiful.

The symbol of Palencia. It’s the biggest statue after Brasil’s, measuring 30 meters. It’s located at the highest part of Palencia and can be seen from anywhere in the city.

The most beautiful day is when they throw bread and cheese for all the people in attendance. It happens on April 16th each year, during the festival of Saint Toribio.

All of those who visit are encouraged to eat bread and cheese. The statue of Christ is surrounded by parties, festivities, and markets on this holiday.

I’ll never forget when I was little and I went up to see the Christ of Otero statue. From the bottom of the hill it seems big, but once you’re at the top of the hill and still standing at his feet, you feel like an ant.

I think that the feeing I felt that day is something that every Palencian has felt and carries with them throughout their lives. It’s the symbol of our city, Palencia.