Coquimbo Cross of the Third Millennium
Coquimbo
The Coquimbo Cross of the Third Millennium, known locally as Cruz del Tercer Milenio, stands as an imposing 83-meter tall and 40-meter wide concrete cross on El Vigía hill in Coquimbo, Chile. Completed in 2000, it commemorates the Catholic Church's Jubilee Year 2000 and is considered one of the tallest monuments in South America. Architecturally, the cross is composed of three independent bodies emerging from a triangular base symbolizing the Holy Trinity. The monument features three levels: the first houses a chapel with gifts from Pope John Paul II, a museum, and a photographic exhibit detailing its conception and construction. The second level includes a prayer plaza with ten columns representing the Ten Commandments and a bronze replica of Michelangelo's La Pietà. The top levels offer panoramic viewpoints, including a main suspended balcony approximately 60 meters above ground, providing stunning vistas over the bays of Coquimbo and La Serena. Funded by popular and corporate donations, the cross is both a religious symbol and a cultural landmark, deeply integrated into the region's spiritual life and popular devotion.
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Astuce: Visit during clear weather for the best panoramic views of Coquimbo and La Serena. Purchasing tickets or guided tours in advance is advisable during peak seasons or religious holidays. Discounts may be available for students, seniors, and groups. The site is accessible by local transport and includes visitor facilities. Early morning or late afternoon visits can provide pleasant lighting for photography and a peaceful atmosphere.
Faits intéressants
- •The cross is one of the tallest monuments in South America, standing 83 meters tall.
- •Its triangular base symbolizes the Holy Trinity, a central Christian doctrine.
- •The site includes a bronze replica of Michelangelo's La Pietà, a renowned Renaissance sculpture.
- •The monument was inaugurated in 2000 with the presence of Chilean President Ricardo Lagos.
- •The cross is located on El Vigía hill, approximately 201 meters above sea level when combining hill and structure height.
Histoire
The Coquimbo Cross of the Third Millennium was conceived in 1998 by the local municipal council to commemorate the 2000th anniversary of Christ's birth.
Construction began in April 1999 on El Vigía hill, a site chosen for its prominence above the city.
The project was awarded to architects Carlos Aguirre Mandiola, Carlos Aguirre Baeza, Juan Pablo Parentini Gayani, and Álvaro Páez Rivera after a national competition.
The main structure was completed and inaugurated on May 5, 2000, with the presence of Chile's president Ricardo Lagos.
The monument reflects Chile's deep Catholic heritage, tied to early Spanish colonization and longstanding regional religious traditions, including devotion to Our Lady of Andacollo dating back to 1549.
Guide du lieu
Chapel and Museum Area2000
Located on the first level, this area contains the main chapel featuring gifts sent by Pope John Paul II, a museum, and a photographic exhibit documenting the monument's conception, construction, and inauguration.
Prayer Plaza with Ten Commandments Columns2000
On the second level, visitors find a plaza dedicated to prayer, marked by ten columns representing the Ten Commandments and a bronze replica of Michelangelo's La Pietà, emphasizing religious devotion and artistic heritage.
Panoramic Viewpoints2000
The upper levels feature two main observation points, including a suspended balcony approximately 60 meters above ground, offering expansive views of Coquimbo bay and La Serena, making it a prime spot for sightseeing and photography.
Contact
Téléphone: (51) 232 7935