Explosions Near Christo Rey – Don’t Worry, The Statue Is Fine

If you heard some loud noises or noticed pictures rattling on the walls recently near Christo Rey, don't worry. They were planned explosions ...

The blasts began Tuesday and there may still be more as the area near the mountain that Christo Rey sits upon is prepared for construction of a new border wall.

Christo Rey has stood atop the mountain for almost 90 years and is totally fine. The explosions do not involve the statue at all.

Christo Rey has seen thousands upon thousands make the pilgrimage/hike to visit the statue, pray and/or give thanks for prayers answered among other reasons. Now may not be a good time for a visit though.

What Is Happening Near Christo Rey?

The Border Wall is being added to in a project first announced in September, 2025.

ABC-7 reported last summer that approximately 1.3 kilometers of new border barrier were approved for the Sunland Park area, south of the mountain. The goal of this new wall in that area is to deter illegal immigration into the United States further, as this section of the border has lacked a wall for years and has been a very active area for migrant crossings, according to Border Patrol. - KVIA

The statue of Jesus Christ atop the mountain was originally a 12 foot wooden cross, later replaced by one made of iron. The current monument was made from 40 tons of limestone brought in from quarries near Austin. Each piece was cut and shaped for shipping by sculptor Urbici Soler.

READ MORE: Christo Rey Is NOT A Crucifix

All that stone was driven up the very steep, super rocky mountain in trucks to be carved onsite by Soler.