Albania has unveiled its first statue of Jesus Christ, erected in the Nikaj-Mërtur region of Tropoja, deep in the Albanian Alps. Perched on a stone platform with a breathtaking mountain backdrop, the monument evokes the style of iconic landmarks such as Rio de Janeiro’s “Christ the Redeemer.”

Dozens of locals, visitors from Albania, Kosovo, and the diaspora, along with MPs Eduard Shalsi and Marjana Koçeku, attended the historic ceremony. The project was made possible by the personal contribution of Sokol Ndue Progni, who described the statue as an act of love for his homeland and a commitment to preserving spiritual values.

Gjin Progni, head of the “Nikaj-Mërturi” Association, called the bust “a call for spiritual unity and greater care for our homeland.” The monument was blessed by Father Aleksander Tanushi, while the ceremony was enriched with poetry and traditional music performances.

As the only statue of Jesus in Albania, locals and organizers believe it will become a landmark for visitors and a boost for tourism in the northern Albanian Alps.