Photo: Juan Carlos Fonseca Mata · CC BY-SA 4.0
How to visit the giant Christ the King monument on Cerro del Cubilete: how to get there from Guanajuato, León and Silao, what you see at the top, the best time to go, pilgrimage dates and practical tips.
Why Cristo Rey matters
The hill has long been popularly described as the geographic centre of Mexico, and in the 1920s a first monument to Christ the King was raised here. It was destroyed during the Cristero War, the conflict between the Mexican state and Catholic rebels. The current sanctuary and the giant bronze statue — around 20 metres tall, with arms outstretched over the valley — were completed around the middle of the 20th century and remain a symbol of Mexican Catholic identity. Inside the base is a sanctuary where Mass is held. Whatever your beliefs, the combination of history, scale and view is striking.
What you see at the top
- The statue and sanctuary, with the chapel inside the base.
- Panoramic views over Silao, León and the Bajío plains on clear days.
- Stalls selling religious souvenirs, snacks and local sweets near the car park.
- The road up, which winds around the mountain and is part of the experience — take it slowly.
Behave as you would in a church inside the sanctuary: quiet voices, no hats, modest clothing, and no photos during Mass.
Getting there
- Tour from Guanajuato (easiest): the group tour handles the mountain road, parking and timing, and gives context on the Cristero history.
- Car: drive toward Silao and follow signs for Cristo Rey / Cubilete; the last stretch climbs a winding mountain road. Drive in daylight and use low gear on the descent.
- Bus: buses to Cristo Rey leave from Guanajuato and Silao, more frequently on weekends. Check the return time as soon as you arrive; the last buses leave in the afternoon.
- Taxi: possible from Guanajuato or Silao; agree a round-trip price and waiting time in advance.
If you are staying in Guanajuato city, pair the trip with getting around Guanajuato tips.
Tips for a good visit
- Bring a jacket and sunscreen: it is colder and windier than in the city, but the sun is strong.
- Go early for clear air; afternoons often turn hazy, and summer storms can close in.
- People with heart or breathing problems should take it easy at altitude.
- Carry cash for parking, snacks and souvenirs.
- Pilgrims sometimes climb on foot or on their knees for the final stretch; give them space.
Combine it with
Cristo Rey fits neatly into a day with the city: morning at the summit, afternoon at the Mirador del Pípila or the Valenciana mine. For more ideas, see our best day trips from Guanajuato capital, and if you are coming from León, our León practical guide.
Frequently asked questions
Where is Cristo Rey in Guanajuato? On the summit of Cerro del Cubilete in the municipality of Silao, between Guanajuato city and León.
How do I get to Cristo Rey from Guanajuato? By group tour, car, taxi or bus. It is roughly 40–60 minutes by road; buses also leave from Guanajuato and Silao.
Is it free to visit Cristo Rey? Access to the sanctuary is free; you pay for transport, parking and any tour.
How tall is the Cristo Rey statue? The bronze statue is about 20 metres tall and stands on top of the sanctuary building.
Is Cerro del Cubilete the centre of Mexico? It is popularly described as the geographic centre of Mexico, which is part of why the monument was built there.
When is the Cristo Rey pilgrimage? The largest pilgrimage is for the feast of Christ the King, in late November. Expect huge crowds and road closures that weekend.
