Christ sculpture found at sea becomes tourist attraction in Palmar, Ecuador

A striking sculpture of Christ has become a new attraction in Palmar, Ecuador, after fishermen discovered it partially submerged at the sea's edge. The large image, standing several meters tall on the sand, quickly captured public attention and went viral after a video of the find circulated widely.

The discovery prompted immediate interest from local authorities, including the municipality of Salinas, and numerous internet users. Initially, some residents speculated it might be the Cristo Redentor, a submerged statue off the coast of El Pelado islet. However, the communal council of Ayangue clarified that the Palmar sculpture is distinct from the one in El Pelado, urging the public to avoid confusion.

Salinas Mayor Dennis Córdova stated that the sculpture is intended for a future underwater museum being developed in the Salinas canton. Made of plaster, the statue reportedly lacked protective buoys and may have been washed ashore, possibly by a fisherman. Believers have gathered to venerate the statue, pray, and take photographs, adding to its status as a burgeoning tourist draw for the region.