About Mount Cristo Rey

Mount Cristo Rey is one of El Paso's most iconic and spiritually significant landmarks even though it technically sits just over the stat line in Sun

land Park, New Mexico. Still, it's deeply tied to El Paso's identity, and it's only accessible from the Texas side, making it feel very much like part of the El Paso community.

Quick Facts:

The Statue: at the top of the Mount Cristo Rey stands a 42.5 foot limestone statue of Christ, arms outstretched, but not in crucifixion, but in blessing. Unlike many statues of Jesus on crosses, this one stands tall and upright, facing Ciudad Juarez, Mexico, as a symbol of peace, unity, and faith.

Built in 1939: it was designed by sculptor Urbici Soler, who was born in Spain. The project was commissioned by a local priest, Father Lourdes Costa, to serve as a spiritual beacon for people on both sides of the border.

The hike: to get to the statue, you hike a 4.4 mile round-trip trial (popular with the faithful and fitness-minded locals). Pilgrimages and walks happen year-round, but especially during Holy Week and on the last Sunday of October, when many locals make the journey during the annual pilgrimage.

Spiritual Significance: the statue has become a place of borderland prayer, unity, and reflection, especially for those affected by violence or tragedy in the region. Many people leave crosses, rosaries, or handwritten notes at the top.

3 Border Overlook: once you reach the summit, you can see Texas, New Mexico, and Mexico all at once. It's one of the only places in the U.S. where such a view is possible.

It's not just a religious symbol- Mount Cristo Rey is a symbol of border identity, perseverance, and peace, representing how interconnected the El Paso-Juarez- Las Cruces region really is.