What Is the Christ of the Ozarks?
The Ozarks are home to several museums, historic sites, and unique attractions. One such attraction is the towering Christ of the Ozarks in Eureka Springs. Whether you are religious or not, this sculpture is a sight to behold, especially from close up as it looms over you. Continue reading for more information about this impressive mountainside statue, and if you’d like to see other landmarks and historic sites in the area while here, take advantage of our complimentary travel guide!
So, What is the Christ of the Ozarks?
The Christ of the Ozarks is a Jesus statue within the Great Passion Play religious theme park. The statue sits atop Magnetic Mountain in Eureka Springs, Arkansas. Already 1500 feet in the air, the monument rises over 65 feet, and the arm span stretches an additional 65 feet in width, making this statue among the largest in the world. The Christ of the Ozarks was inspired by the Jesus statue in Brazil, Christ the Redeemer in Rio de Janeiro.
Gerald Smith envisioned the white mortar and steel statue and sculpted by Emmet Sullivan in 1966. The design is somewhat minimalistic despite its impressive, seven-story stature, with relatively smooth features. The Christ of the Ozarks looks out over the town of Eureka Springs from its tranquil vantage point.
Parking is available in a parking lot a quarter of a mile away, or you can drive right up to the statue. A segment of the Berlin Wall is also nearby, as is a small chapel, available as a space for quiet meditation or prayer. The Christ of the Ozarks is free to visit, but other attractions in the Great Passion Play do charge admission.
OTHER ATTRACTIONS AT THE GREAT PASSION PLAY
If you want to spend a day exploring the other attractions at the Great Passion Play, there are quite a few things to do. You can catch a showing of the Great Passion Play, which is an outdoor drama depicting the last days of Jesus, take a Holy Land tour past biblically-inspired exhibits, or visit the Bible museum that houses several bible manuscripts. Another nearby point of interest is the Thorncrown Chapel, which is a unique glass chapel in the woods.
Unwind With Beaver Lake Cottages
After visiting the iconic Christ of the Ozarks, return to reflect in lovely surroundings. Beaver Lake Cottages are nestled amongst the beautiful scenery of the Ozarks and each look out over the pristine lake. Though our cottages offer privacy, they are a short drive away from downtown Eureka Springs, ensuring that you can still easily visit nearby attractions.
Choose from a suite, one-bedroom, or two-bedroom cottage—regardless of which you pick, you can expect luxurious king-sized beds, a relaxing Jacuzzi, and fantastic views of Beaver Lake through the floor-to-ceiling glass-fronts. We have several packages and specials that can enhance your stay, ranging from discounted rates on select stays to an Entertainment package that takes you on a tour of Eureka Springs. Make your vacation an unforgettable experience, and book your Beaver Lake Cottage today!