Cristo Rei, Lubango

The city of Lubango in the Angolan highlands is watched over by a large statue of Christ the King, modelled on the famous statue at Rio de Janeiro and set on a hilltop above the town. Erected in the colonial era, the outstretched-armed figure has become the emblem of Lubango and a place of pilgrimage and viewpoint over the surrounding plateau. The monument reflects the strong Catholic heritage of the region and the aspirations of the growing highland city. Its elevated setting draws visitors for panoramas across the valley below.