The monument, located on Morro do Alarico, is a six-metre-high statue with a 28-metre pedestal. It is accessed via a staircase leading from the Salesian College, next to the Basilica of Nossa Senhora Auxiliadora.
According to the publication in the Official Gazette, the recognition is due to the historical, cultural and religious importance that the monument dedicated to Mary Help of Christians has for the entire city. Every year, the monument becomes a destination for pilgrimages, such as the one in May, which attracted more than 2,000 pilgrims and community members who traditionally gather for the beginning of the Marian month.
Furthermore, with this new recognition, the municipal administration will be able to support and promote initiatives and events aimed at enhancing the historical, cultural and religious value of the Monument to Mary Help of Christians. The aim will be to encourage the citizens of Niterói to preserve and learn about their heritage.
Opened on 8 December 1900, the Monument to Our Lady Help of Christians was conceived by Fr Luis Zanchetta and designed by Salesian engineer Domingos Delpiano. It is a beautiful work in the so-called “Bossan” style, combining Gothic elements with Arabic details.
The monument is therefore preparing to celebrate its 125th anniversary in December this year.
