Heart of Jesus

Looking like something from a sci-fi movie, Romania’s futuristic metal Christ is part look-out point, part statue. It is made of iron and stainless steel. At nearly 23 meters (72 feet), the stainless steel behemoth sits atop Gordon Hill, on the outskirts of Lupeni village in Transylvania. Finished in 2011, it’s the work of sculptor Walter Zawaczky and its lofty vantage point of more than 950 meters (3,116 feet) above sea level makes it the highest sculpture in Eastern Europe. Visitors can ascend a series of metal staircases to stand inside the head of the statue and take in sweeping views over the surrounding countryside. Inside the statue, there are metallic spiral staircases up to the head, from where you could admire the wonderful view around.

The townspeople hope to boost the local economy by turning this sculpture into a tourist destination. The mountain road leading to this statue, nevertheless, is in disrepair. Visitors had a long trek there because it is difficult to access by typical tiny automobiles.

Location: Harghita, Romania

Architect: Walter Zawaczky