Cristo de las Galeras

Originally intended as a tourist attraction comparable to Christ the Redeemer in Rio, this 50-foot fiberglass statue towers above the capital of the Mexican state of Coahuila, and has a complicated history.

Before construction was completed, the site was burned in what was widely seen as an arson attack. The community came together in its aftermath and finished the sculpture for a total cost of around 5 million pesos (about $450,000 in 2005).

The installation was designed by the sculptor César Ledezma. It originally included a chapel at the base, which has fallen out of use in recent years. The site offers a commanding view of the city below, but visitors have noted signs of neglect and abandonment, like litter and graffiti. Local groups who visit the statue on religious occasions have called for it to be restored and protected.