In 1954, a bronze statue of Jesus Christ was submerged in the waters off the Italian coast, paying homage to a diver who tragically lost his life. The “Christ of the Abyss” sculpture, standing 2.5 meters tall and weighing 260 kilograms, was commissioned by renowned Italian diver Duilio Marcante to honor his late colleague Dario Gonzatti. This underwater monument, with its arms outstretched in a gesture of invocation, was sculpted by Guido Galletti and placed on the seabed near San Fruttuoso, Italy.
Honoring the Brave
Over the years, the statue has undergone repairs to combat the elements and even had a hand reattached after being severed by an anchor. A plaque was later added at its base, commemorating Marcante himself after his passing.
The Caribbean Replica: A Symbol of Resilience
The Bianca C Tragedy
In 1961, a catastrophic boiler explosion rocked the Italian luxury cruise liner Bianca C while docked in St. George’s, Grenada. Miraculously, only one life was lost as locals swiftly responded, rescuing nearly 700 passengers and crew members with their fishing boats. Their heroic efforts, including setting up a temporary hospital and welcoming survivors into their homes, inspired the Costa Line to present a replica of the “Christ of the Abyss” statue to the island nation.
The Key Largo Installation: A Journey Across the Atlantic
From Chicago to Key Largo
The third bronze cast of Galletti’s masterpiece found its way to Key Largo, Florida, after an exhibition and celebratory luncheon in Chicago. Its journey was not without challenges, as finding a permanent home and securing funds for transportation proved difficult. Ultimately, with the assistance of the Florida Otter Diving Club, the Naval Reserve, and Senator John Pennekamp, the statue was installed in Pennekamp State Park.
Defying Nature’s Wrath
Before its inauguration on June 29, 1966, the Key Largo “Christ of the Abyss” faced a stern test from Hurricane Betsy in September 1965. Despite the Category III winds and turbulent seas, the monument remained steadfast, solidifying its reputation as a symbol of resilience and strength.
Conclusion
The three underwater Christ statues, each with its unique story and significance, continue to captivate divers and visitors from around the world. From Italy to Grenada and Key Largo, these submerged monuments serve as powerful reminders of life’s fragility, human courage, and the enduring spirit of faith and hope.
