A Silent Guardian Beneath Portofino’s Waters

Written By Megan Broccoli

There are places in Italy that leave you speechless not with grand architecture, but with quiet beauties beneath the sea. Just off the shores of Portofino, in the Ligurian Sea’s sapphire embrace, rests Il Cristo degli Abissi—Christ of the Abyss—an underwater sculpture that feels like a heartfelt prayer cast into the deep.

Standing at nearly 17 meters below the waves, this bronze statue with outstretched arms seems to bless both sea and souls alike. Descend through beams of light, watch fish swirl among coral, and feel a hush that moves you more deeply than any cathedral ever could.

A Monument Born from Loss

In 1947, diver Dario Gonzatti tragically perished exploring these waters. To honor him, fellow diver Duilio Marcante invited Guido Galletti to sculpt a statue that would protect and commemorate—lowered into place in 1954 from donated bells, medals, and maritime relics, now resting on a seabed pedestal near the Abbey of San Fruttuoso. Italia Slow Tour+5Portofino Divers+5Diving Group Portofino+5Wikipedia

How to Visit the Christ of the Abyss

By Boat or Ferry

One of the most scenic—and practical—ways to reach San Fruttuoso is by sea:

By Hiking

There are no roads to San Fruttuoso—only steep, forest-lined trails from Portofino or Camogli. The journey takes 2–3 hours but rewards you with breathtaking views and a sense of pilgrimage. Rome2Rio+15Outdoor Portofino+15Traghetti Portofino+15

By Kayak or Paddleboard

For a quieter, more immersive approach, you can kayak or paddle to the bay and get close enough to peek beneath the surface to the statue. Guides and rentals are available, or you can go independently—just be mindful of boat traffic. Wikipedia+5Outdoor Portofino+5Diving Group Portofino+5

Guided Diving & Snorkeling Trips

  • Portofino Divers (Santa Margherita Ligure) offers daily boat dives into the marine park, including the Christ of the Abyss. Even newcomers can participate via the PADI Discover Scuba Diving introduction course. Traghetti Portofino+8Portofino Divers+8Portofino Divers+8

  • For gentler exploration, Portofino Snorkeling Team runs eco‑guided snorkeling tours (May through October) with naturalist guides. On calm days, you can float above the statue. Tours depart at 2:30 pm, last about 3 hours, and cost around €95 for adults and €75 for children (under 16), including gear, boat ride, and marine park fees. Portofino Divers

  • Diving Group Portofino also organizes dives, taking you to the statue’s base at approximately –12 m, with underwater life and a safety stop at –5 m—all led with care and artistry. Diving Group Portofino

Where to Stay—Your Base by the Sea

  • Portofino: For romance and elegance, consider a stay at places like the iconic Belmond Hotel Splendido. It's perfect if luxury and proximity to the water spark your soul.

  • Santa Margherita Ligure: Offers more mid-range accommodations and serves as a convenient hub for both boat departures and train connections.

  • Camogli: Charming, less touristy, with family-run lodgings and a local ambiance that feels like home.

A Reflection Beyond the Sea

Descending to the bronze arms of Christ in the abyss is more than a journey—it's a brush with memory, heritage, and the ancient dream of Italy that lives in both land and sea. Whether seen while drifting with a guide, paddling solo, or nestled in a harbor-side town overnight, the visit becomes part of your own unfolding story—one as layered as the Ligurian waters themselves.

May your trip stir your spirit, and may you feel Italy’s voice beneath the waves as deeply as heritage stirs in your heart.

Megan Broccoli
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