Tigullio · San Fruttuoso bay
Christ of the Abyss: the submerged statue of San Fruttuoso.
A two-and-a-half-metre bronze statue, arms raised towards the surface, placed in 1954 on the seabed of San Fruttuoso bay in the Portofino Marine Park. One of the best-known symbols of the diving world, it can be seen by diving, from the surface, or as the replica inside the abbey.
The story
A bronze Christ on the seabed, since 1954.
The Christ of the Abyss was lowered into the waters of San Fruttuoso bay in August 1954, at about 17 metres depth. The work, by sculptor Guido Galletti, was created in memory of Dario Gonzatti, the first Italian diver to die while diving, and more broadly as a tribute to all who have lost their lives at sea. The statue depicts Christ with arms and gaze raised upwards, towards the surface and the light.
Over time the Christ of the Abyss has become an icon of the international diving world. Two twin statues were cast from the same mould and submerged at Key Largo in Florida and at Saint George's in Grenada, in the Caribbean. But the original is here, in the heart of the Tigullio Gulf, in the protected marine area of the Portofino Park.
How to see it
Three ways to see the Christ of the Abyss.
By diving — the most authentic way. Dive centres in Camogli and the area organise guided dives to the Christ, suitable even for those with a basic certification given the modest depth. It is the experience divers from all over the world come here for.
Snorkelling or by boat — on calm, clear days the statue is also visible from the surface with mask and fins, or from glass-bottom boats that leave from San Fruttuoso and Camogli. Visibility depends greatly on sea conditions.
The replica in the abbey — for non-divers, a bronze cast of the Christ is displayed inside the Abbey of San Fruttuoso, on the bay. It lets you see the work up close, on dry land, in any sea conditions.
Getting to San Fruttuoso
The bay is reached only by sea or on foot.
San Fruttuoso has no roads: you reach it only by ferry or on the trails of the Portofino Park. Tigullio Maritime Service ferries leave from Camogli, Portofino and, in high season, from Santa Margherita and Rapallo. Alternatively, the trail from Camogli via Pietre Strette or the one from the Portofino promontory reach the bay on foot in 2-3 hours of scenic walking.
The best time to see the Christ is summer, when the water is clearer and ferry connections more frequent. Each year, around the anniversary, a commemorative dive takes place.
FAQ
Frequently asked questions about Christ of the Abyss.
What is the Christ of the Abyss at San Fruttuoso?
A bronze statue about 2.5 metres tall, placed in 1954 at 17 metres depth in San Fruttuoso bay, in the Portofino Marine Park. It shows Christ with arms raised towards the surface and is dedicated to those who lost their lives at sea. It is an icon of the international diving world.
How can you see the Christ of the Abyss without diving?
A bronze replica of the statue is displayed inside the Abbey of San Fruttuoso, so you can see it up close on dry land. In addition, when the sea is calm and clear, the original statue is sometimes visible while snorkelling or from glass-bottom boats.
Do you need a diving licence to see the Christ of the Abyss?
For a direct dive yes, but given the shallow depth (about 17 metres) it is accessible even with a basic certification through local dive centres. Non-divers can see the replica in the abbey or try to spot it from the surface.
How do you get to San Fruttuoso bay?
Only by sea or on foot: San Fruttuoso has no roads. Ferries leave from Camogli, Portofino and, in summer, from Santa Margherita and Rapallo. Alternatively, scenic Portofino Park trails reach the bay in 2-3 hours of walking.
Who is Rapallo Smart Home for?
For couples, families or small groups up to 4 guests looking for independence and a full kitchen. From Rapallo you reach San Fruttuoso by ferry and explore the whole Tigullio without a car.
Plan your visit with LigurIA.
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