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San Salvador: Guardian of the Sea

A towering sculpture of Christ on Mar del Plata's southern breakwater, offering protection to fishermen and stunning ocean views.

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The San Salvador sculpture, a towering figure of Christ, stands proudly on the Escollera Sur (southern breakwater) of Mar del Plata's port. It serves as a protector of fishermen and a symbol of hope for those arriving by sea. Overlooking the vast Atlantic, the statue is a powerful landmark and a testament to the city's maritime heritage.

A brief summary to San Salvador

  • Escollera Sur, Mar del Plata, Buenos Aires Province, AR
  • Monday 12 am-12 am
  • Tuesday 12 am-12 am
  • Wednesday 12 am-12 am
  • Thursday 12 am-12 am
  • Friday 12 am-12 am
  • Saturday 12 am-12 am
  • Sunday 12 am-12 am

Local tips

  • Combine your visit with a walk along the Escollera Sur to see the sea lion reserve.
  • Bring a jacket, as the exposed breakwater can be windy.
  • Visit during sunset for a particularly stunning view of the sculpture and the coastline.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    If you are near the port area, walking to San Salvador is a pleasant option. From the Puerto de Mar del Plata, head south along the Escollera Sur. The walk takes approximately 15-20 minutes, offering views of the harbor and the sea. There are no costs involved.

  • Public Transport

    From the city center (Plaza Colón), take bus line 221 or 511 towards 'Puerto'. Get off at the 'Escollera Sur' stop. From there, it's a short walk to the sculpture. The bus journey takes around 30 minutes. A single bus fare is approximately ARS 50.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available throughout Mar del Plata. Inform the driver you wish to go to 'San Salvador' at 'Escollera Sur'. The ride from the city center typically takes 15-20 minutes, depending on traffic. The estimated cost is ARS 800-1200.

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Discover more about San Salvador

San Salvador, also known as Christ the Redeemer, is a prominent sculpture located on the Escollera Sur in Mar del Plata, Argentina. Inaugurated in 1980 by the Sagrada Familia Parish, the statue serves as the patron saint of fishermen, offering a beacon of faith and protection to those who navigate the often treacherous waters of the Atlantic. The imposing figure, crafted by sculptor Emilio Manescau, stands approximately 14 meters tall. Manescau envisioned the statue with a light emanating from its heart, visible from afar, and a special protective coating. However, due to a theft of funds, the original design was never fully realized, and Manescau completed the project with his own resources. Despite this setback, the statue remains a beloved symbol of Mar del Plata. Visitors to San Salvador can appreciate the artistry of the sculpture and enjoy panoramic views of the port and the ocean. The surrounding area also holds significance, with funerary urns and memorial plaques dedicated to lost fishermen, adding a poignant layer to the site's spiritual importance. The sculpture is a reminder of the strong connection between the city and the sea.

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