Italian divers water-blast the popular underwater statue of Christ off Portofino to clean it

Key Takeaways:

• The statue is regarded as one of the largest underwater attractions in the Mediterranean.
• Located off the coast of Portofino, Italy, it attracts divers and tourists alike.
• Police divers performed a water-blasting operation to clean the statue.
• The statue remains popular thanks to ongoing conservation efforts.
• The original report of this cleanup appeared on Abc News in August 2025.

Introduction

Situated just off the scenic coast of Portofino, Italy, a renowned statue of Christ rests beneath the waves. Recently, police divers took on the challenge of restoring this beloved underwater monument, which had accumulated layers of marine growth over time.

The Underwater Statue’s Significance

Considered one of the biggest underwater attractions of the Mediterranean, this statue draws diving enthusiasts and curious sightseers from all over the world. Over the years, it has become synonymous with the region’s maritime heritage, adding to the allure of Portofino’s coastal waters.

The Cleaning Effort

Police divers in Italy used a water-blasting method to clean the statue and remove encrusting algae, shells, and other debris that can obscure its surface. In the words of one official publication, “Police divers in Italy have cleaned one of the biggest underwater attractions of the Mediterranean.” Their careful approach ensured minimal harm to local marine life while restoring the statue to its original prominence.

Local Reception and Ongoing Importance

Visitors and the local community alike have praised the operation for refreshing this cultural centerpiece. The statue continues to serve as a symbol of local pride and reconciliation between nature and art, reminding onlookers of the power of conservation.

Conclusion

With the completion of this latest cleaning effort, the statue remains a must-see attraction for those venturing to Portofino’s coastal waters. Conservation projects like this water-blasting endeavor demonstrate the importance of preserving underwater landmarks, ensuring they endure for generations to come.