Monumental statues are some of humanity’s greatest achievements worth to be proud of and celebrated. Each and every monument is a reminder of human ambition. These statues are not just built for landmark purposes but also for humans to commemorate and immortalize deities or figures they respect. From the truly awe-inspiring Statue of Unity in India to the impressive Garuda Wisnu Kencana (GWK) Cultural Park statue in Indonesia, there are giant monumental statues all around the world. Want to know more about giant monumental statues? We will show you a list of some of the highest statues in the world.
Before we get into the list, let’s talk about what it means to be the world’s highest statues. The highest statues in the world measurement is based on the height of the main figure from the ground level to its highest point. Unless it is an integral part of the statue, the pedestal or base measurement is excluded.
Giant monumental statues hold great cultural, historical, and social significance. They are lasting reminders of important historical figures and events in the form of a structure. They represent humans’ religious devotion, national pride, or respect for historical figures. Giant monumental statues also leave a great impact on tourism. Their unique architectural style and cultural significance attract visitors from all over the world.
Ready to feel small? Let’s get into the list of some of the highest statues in the world, starting from the highest one!
7 Notable Highest Statues in the World
1. Statue of Unity
Source: Freepik
On top of the list, we have the Statue of Unity. Standing at a staggering height of 182 metres (597 ft), it is currently the highest statue in India as well as in the world. The statue is located in Kevadia, Narmada District, Gujarat State, India. It is dedicated to Indian politician Sardar Vallabbhai Patel who fought for the independence of India alongside Gandhi. The construction of this statue started in 2013 and was completed in 2018.
2. Spring Temple Buddha
Spring Temple Buddha, also known as the Zhongyuan Buddha, currently is the tallest Buddha statue in the world. It stands at the height of 128 meters (420 ft), excluding a 25 metres (82 ft) lotus throne. The statue is located in Foquan Temple, in the Zhaocun township of Lushan County, Henan, China. It was built between the period of 1997 and 2008.
3. Laykyun Sekkya
Source: Freepik
The Laykyun Sekkya is the symbol of Myanmar, the country’s very own colossal statue depicting the Gautama Buddha. Being the third highest statue in the world, it stands at the height of 115.8 metres (380 ft). It is located at Khatakan Taung, near Monywa, Sagaing Division. The statue was commissioned by Chief Abbot Ven. Nãradã. Its construction began in 1996 and completed in 2008.
4. Garuda Wisnu Kencana (GWK) Cultural Park
Garuda Wisnu Kencana (GWK) is the iconic symbol of Bali, Indonesia. Your visit to Bali will not be complete without visiting this impressive statue. With a total height of 121 m (397 ft) tall above ground, it is the 4th highest statue in the world as well as the tallest statue in Indonesia.
The statue depicting the Hindu God Vishnu riding his bird companion Garuda was the result of the tireless effort of one of the best property developers in Indonesia, Alam Sutera Realty. Their commitment and involvement in constructing this statue in 2013 made the dream of making the icon a reality.
GWK Cultural Park offers an unparalleled statue sightseeing experience. Not only that, GWK Cultural Park offers many other interesting attractions. Things to do in GWK Cultural Park besides statue sightseeing include watching various cultural performances and viewing panoramic views. If you are travelling to Bali, GWK is a place you must visit.
Don’t miss out on the best place to experience the culture and grandeur of Bali; Garuda Wisnu Kencana! Secure your tickets now!
5. Ushiku Daibutsu
Source: Freepik
The giant bronze monumental statue Ushiku Daibutsu is currently Japan’s tallest statue. It is located in Ushiku, Ibaraki Prefecture, Japan. The statue depicting Amitābha Buddha was built to commemorate the birth of Shinran, founder of the Jōdo Shinshū or “True Pure Land School” of Buddhism. Completed in 1993, it stands at a height of 100 m (330 ft) tall, excluding the 10 metres (33 ft) base and 10 metres lotus pond.
6. Christ the Redeemer
Source: Freepik
Next on the list we have one of the eight wonders of the world, Christ the Redeemer. The statue depicting Jesus was created by French-Polish sculptor Paul Landowski and built by Brazilian engineer Heitnor da Silva Costa, in collaboration with French engineer Albert Caquot. Located in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, the statue stands 30 m (98 ft) tall, excluding its 8-metre (26 ft) pedestal. In addition to its impressive height, the arms stretch 28 metres (92 ft) wide. Its construction began in 1922 and completed in 1931.
7. The Motherland Calls
Source: Freepik
Last on the list we have the Motherland Calls which is a 52 m (172 ft) tall statue of a winged female figure holding a sword aloft. The statue is located in Mamayev Kurgan, Volgograd, Russia. Designed by Yevgeny Vuhetich with assistance from architect Yakov Belopolsky, the concrete sculpture commemorates the casualties of the Battle of Stalingrad.
Read also: Exploring Balinese Cultural Richness through GWK Cultural Park
Start Your Journey with GWK Cultural Park
Your journey in the world will not be complete without visiting these monumental achievements. As the number 1 tourist destination in Bali, Garuda Wisnu Kencana (GWK) Cultural Park is a place very worth-visiting. It is the perfect place if you’re looking for something that combines culture, art, and epic photo spots. GWK does not only offer the main statue sightseeing but it also offers every day and every hour Balinese performances, restaurant with city light view, and iconic venue with the one and only GWK statue as the background.
GWK Cultural Park is located in Jalan Raya Uluwatu, Ungasan, South Kuta, Badung, Bali. It is approximately 12 km or 30-40 minutes from the I Gusti Ngurah Rai International Airport. If you are coming from the airport, you can take the By Pass Ngurah Rai route. Then, access Jalan Raya Uluwatu until entering Garuda Wisnu Kencana road in Ungasan.
It opens daily from 9 AM to 10 PM. If you are interested in GWK, it is recommended to visit the park in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the midday heat and get the best lighting for photography.
Witness the majestic Garuda Wisnu Kencana firsthand! Buy your tickets now and prepare to be amazed by the iconic symbol of Bali!