The world’s largest statues are awe-inspiring, both in their size and significance. These monumental sculptures are not only architectural feats but also symbols of cultural pride, religious devotion, and historical remembrance. From the towering Statue of Unity in India to the immense Spring Temple Buddha in China, each statue holds a unique place in the world, offering insights into the artistic and engineering capabilities of their creators. Here’s a detailed look at the largest statues, along with their facts and numbers.
1. Statue of Unity (India)
The Statue of Unity, located in the Indian state of Gujarat, is currently the tallest statue in the world. Standing at an incredible height of 597 feet (182 meters), it was inaugurated in 2018. This colossal statue honors Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, a key figure in the Indian independence movement and the country’s first Deputy Prime Minister. The statue is constructed using bronze-coated iron and stands on a 240-foot-high base, which serves as a museum and exhibition hall. The total height, including the pedestal, reaches 690 feet (210 meters).
The statue’s base is surrounded by a vast 20,000-square-foot plaza, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding Narmada River and the Sardar Sarovar Dam. It is supported by 2,000 tons of bronze, and it took over 4,000 workers and more than 4 years to complete the project. The Statue of Unity was designed by the Indian sculptor Ram V. Sutar.
2. Spring Temple Buddha (China)
The Spring Temple Buddha in the Zhaocun township of Lushan County, China, was the tallest statue in the world until the Statue of Unity took its place in 2018. Standing at 419 feet (128 meters), the Spring Temple Buddha is a depiction of the Vairocana Buddha, a central figure in Mahayana Buddhism. It was completed in 2008 after nearly 11 years of construction. The statue is built on a 66-foot (20-meter) lotus throne, bringing the total height to 502 feet (153 meters) when including the pedestal.
The statue’s construction cost around $55 million, and it is made from copper, steel, and gold-plated bronze. The statue has become a major pilgrimage site for Buddhists around the world, offering a tranquil space for meditation and reflection. It is located in a natural landscape, enhancing its serene appeal.
3. Laykyun Sekkya (Myanmar)
The Laykyun Sekkya Buddha, located in Khatakan Taung, Myanmar, is another monumental statue, standing at 380 feet (116 meters). It represents the Amitabha Buddha, one of the central deities in Mahayana Buddhism. Completed in 2008, the statue stands on a pedestal that reaches 138 feet (42 meters), bringing its total height to 518 feet (158 meters) when including the base.
This statue is made of concrete and bronze and is known for its serene and majestic posture. Visitors to the site can climb up to the top for panoramic views of the surrounding Khatakan Taung mountain range, which adds to the sense of peace and grandeur. The site also features other statues and shrines, making it a significant pilgrimage destination for Buddhists.
4. Ushiku Daibutsu (Japan)
Located in Ushiku, Japan, the Ushiku Daibutsu is a massive statue of the Amitabha Buddha, standing at a height of 392 feet (119 meters). Completed in 1993, the statue is built from bronze and stands on a pedestal that adds an additional 10 stories, bringing the total height to 502 feet (153 meters). Visitors can take an elevator inside the statue to reach an observation deck located at a height of 85 meters (279 feet).
The statue’s interior houses a museum, and there are also smaller figures of the Buddha inside, providing a unique and peaceful experience for visitors. The Ushiku Daibutsu is a prime example of modern Japanese craftsmanship, showcasing the country’s cultural reverence for Buddhism.
5. Christ the Redeemer (Brazil)
One of the most iconic statues in the world, Christ the Redeemer, stands on the peak of Corcovado Mountain in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. The statue, which represents Jesus Christ, has a height of 98 feet (30 meters), with an arm span of 92 feet (28 meters). While not as tall as some of the other statues on this list, its significance cannot be overstated. It is a symbol of Christianity and a beloved landmark in Brazil.
Completed in 1931, Christ the Redeemer is made of reinforced concrete and soapstone, a durable material ideal for the humid coastal climate. The statue is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and attracts millions of visitors each year.
6. The Motherland Calls (Russia)
Located in Volgograd, Russia, The Motherland Calls is the tallest statue in Europe and one of the tallest in the world. Standing at 279 feet (85 meters), it represents Mother Russia calling her sons to defend the homeland during World War II. Completed in 1967, it is a tribute to the Battle of Stalingrad and the soldiers who fought there. The statue is made from concrete and is held up by a steel frame.
The design of the statue is meant to convey a sense of urgency and power. Its base also features a memorial complex, and the statue itself has become a symbol of resilience and patriotism in Russia.
7. Guanyin of Nanshan (China)
The Guanyin of Nanshan statue in Sanya, on the southern tip of Hainan Island, China, represents the Goddess of Mercy, Guanyin. The statue stands at a height of 354 feet (108 meters), making it one of the tallest statues in the world. Completed in 2005, it is located on a 45-acre plot of land and overlooks the South China Sea. The statue is designed with three faces, each symbolizing different aspects of the deity’s nature.
The Guanyin of Nanshan is a major tourist attraction in China, drawing visitors who seek spiritual insight and beauty. The statue itself is made from bronze and steel, and the site includes a temple dedicated to the goddess, as well as gardens and other statues.
8. Great Buddha of Thailand (Thailand)
The Great Buddha of Thailand, located in Wat Muang temple in Ang Thong Province, stands at a height of 302 feet (92 meters). Completed in 2008, it is the largest statue of Buddha in Thailand and one of the largest in the world. The statue is made from concrete and is coated with gold paint, giving it a stunning, vibrant appearance.
The Great Buddha is a popular tourist destination and pilgrimage site, offering visitors a sense of awe and peace. The statue is visible from miles away, making it an impressive landmark in the region.
Conclusion
The largest statues in the world represent not only monumental engineering achievements but also the deep cultural, religious, and historical significance of the figures they honor. From towering Buddhas to national heroes and religious deities, these statues attract millions of visitors each year and continue to inspire awe and wonder. The sheer scale and craftsmanship of these statues demonstrate human ingenuity and the timeless desire to create lasting monuments to honor important figures and ideals. As we continue to push the boundaries of architecture and sculpture, these colossal statues will remain as symbols of our ability to dream big and build even bigger.
