Beneath the Surface: The Story of Christ of the Abyss in Key Largo

Just off the coast of Key Largo, Florida, a bronze statue stands silently beneath the sea. With open arms and eyes turned upward, the Christ of the Abyss welcomes visitors who dive or snorkel through the calm waters of John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park.

This peaceful figure isn’t just a beautiful sight. It also has a fascinating story — one that spans oceans and honors the spirit of the sea.

How It Got There

In 1965, divers placed the statue on the ocean floor at a reef site called Dry Rocks. Italian scuba gear maker Egidi Cressidonated the statue to the Underwater Society of America as a tribute to those who explore and protect the sea.

Made of bronze, the statue stands about 8.5 feet tall and weighs more than 4,000 pounds. Crews carefully lowered it into place and secured it to a sturdy concrete base. Since then, it has become one of the most popular dive and snorkel spots in the Florida Keys.

On calm days, snorkelers can see it clearly — no scuba certification needed.

A Twin Across the World

Many visitors are surprised to learn that Key Largo’s statue isn’t the only one of its kind.

The original Christ of the Abyss (Il Cristo degli Abissi) was placed in the Mediterranean Sea near Genoa, Italy, in 1954. It stands in the bay of San Fruttuoso, near the site where diver Dario Gonzatti lost his life. He was the first Italian to use scuba gear, and the statue honors his memory.

Key Largo’s version is one of three official bronze copies made from the original mold. Another stands in Grenada, in the Caribbean.

Many believe the Key Largo statue faces its Italian twin across the Atlantic. Whether this is true or just a poetic idea, it adds a sense of connection between the two oceans — and between people who love the sea.

More Than a Dive Spot

Over time, Christ of the Abyss has become more than just an underwater sculpture. It’s a place for reflection, remembrance, and even celebration. Some couples get married here. Others visit to leave flowers or say a silent prayer.

The statue often attracts coral growth and small fish, blending art and nature in a stunning display. It reminds visitors to protect what lies beneath the waves.

If you’re looking for a one-of-a-kind adventure in the Florida Keys, don’t miss Christ of the Abyss. Whether you dive down or float above, it’s a moment you won’t forget.