A wealthy businessman in Mexico has announced plans to construct a massive statue of the Virgin Mary, which would surpass the height of Rio de Janeiro’s iconic Christ the Redeemer.
This ambitious project aims to become a new religious and cultural landmark in Latin America.
Fernando Landeros, a prominent Mexican philanthropist and businessman, is leading the effort to build the colossal statue, titled Bendita María (Blessed Mary).
The proposed monument, planned for the town of Ocotlán in Jalisco, Mexico, is expected to stand 153 feet (46.6 meters) tall—significantly taller than Christ the Redeemer, which is 98 feet (30 meters) tall without its pedestal.
Landeros, known for his charitable initiatives, envisions the project as a tribute to faith and unity.
“This is not just a statue; it is a message of peace, love, and the strength of our faith,” he said in a statement, according to The Guardian
The Virgin Mary holds deep spiritual importance in Mexico, where Catholicism remains the dominant religion.
The planned statue will depict the Virgin of the Immaculate Conception, distinct from Our Lady of Guadalupe, who is the country’s most venerated Marian figure.
Religious scholars see the project as an effort to strengthen devotion to the Virgin Mary while creating a major pilgrimage destination.
“If completed, this could become one of the most important Catholic landmarks in the world,” said Dr. Juan Torres, a historian of Latin American religious culture, in an interview with BBC News
Christ the Redeemer, completed in 1931 atop the Corcovado Mountain in Brazil, is one of the most famous religious statues globally.
While Bendita María will surpass it in height, some argue that Christ the Redeemer’s historical and cultural significance will be difficult to match.
Brazilian architect João Mendes expressed skepticism about the new statue’s impact. “Christ the Redeemer is more than just a statue—it is a symbol of Brazil and Christianity worldwide,” he told CNN.
The proposed statue has received mixed reactions. Supporters believe it will attract religious tourism and boost the local economy, while critics question the need for such a massive project when social issues persist.
“There are more pressing needs, like poverty and education, that should be prioritized,” said local activist Marisol Herrera in an interview with El País
Funding remains another challenge. While Landeros has pledged significant personal investment, additional funding may be required through donations or government support.
