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Third Millennium Cross
Already from a distance denotes its omnipresence, it can be visualized from all sides, including from the coasts of neighboring communes. This is the monument erected on the hill El Vigía de Coquimbo, which represents the famous Third Millennium Cross. The monumental work mobilized the entire town, mostly Catholic. It is the highest and most spectacular work built in South America in homage to the 2000 years of the birth of Jesus Christ. It is built at 157 m.s.n.m.
Its base is formed by three inclined pillars that assemble a large tripod. Above it stands the immense cross composed of three columns representing the Holy Trinity. Its maximum height is 83 meters and it is 40 meters wide. Through its 2,000-step staircase, the base and the cult area are accessed, consisting of a chapel, a museum, and a photographic exhibition in which you can see the different moments of the construction of the cross until its inauguration, on May 5 from the year 2000. You can also appreciate the gifts made by Pope John Paul II for such a work that immortalizes the Christian faith.
From there, by elevator or staircase, you can access the first viewpoint located at 20 meters high. You can also access the ecumenical prayer square, which is adorned with stained glass.
The last section to the viewpoints located within the horizontal arms of the cross is done using elevators or stairs that are inside the pillars. From the large windows located on the cross, you have a spectacular 360 ° panoramic view of all Coquimbo, its bay, and the Pacific Ocean.
The initiative was carried out in front of the Vatican by the illustrious municipality of Coquimbo and with great approval from the Holy Father, the work that recalls the Jubilee year (2000) began. When traveling through its interior, there is a solemn climate and only whispers are heard. In the arms of the cross, two rooms are opened: one contains the busts of who were the Chilean archbishops during the last century, while the other has the busts of the pope's John Paul II and Benedict XVI.
As we stood motionless in front of the windows facing the Pacific, that phrase of Christ that says: 'Faith can move mountains' came to mind. You can also transform them. On your visit to Coquimbo, your senses will be captivated by the Third Millennium.
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