History
The monumental statue of Jesus Christ in Armenia is a major construction project planned for Mount Hatis, approximately 30 kilometres northeast of Yerevan. Proposed in January 2022 by Armenian businessman Gagik Tsarukyan, the project aims to create a landmark celebrating Armenia’s Christian heritage and attracting international tourists. Construction officially began in July 2022.
The statue, designed by sculptor Armen Samvelyan, is planned to stand 33 metres tall, mounted on a reinforced-concrete pedestal. The wider complex is also intended to include a cable car, exhibition facilities and recreational areas, creating a major tourist attraction overlooking the surrounding landscape.
Construction has faced delays and controversy, including opposition from the Armenian Apostolic Church, which has questioned the appropriateness of such a monument within Armenian Christian tradition. Archaeological discoveries near the original summit location also led to plans to relocate the pedestal.
As of October 2026, the project remains under development, with completion targeted for 2027. Once finished, it is intended to become one of Armenia’s most prominent modern landmarks.
