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About this place
The Christ the King statue (Christ-Roi) at Chelin crowns the Châtelard hill above the village of Lens in the Swiss canton of Valais, at about 1,272 m above sea level. Chelin is a former village now within the municipality of Lens, set on a sunny terrace over the Rhône valley next to the resort of Crans-Montana. The monument dates from 1935 and makes an easy, quiet outing with big views.
What is this monument and who paid for it?
The statue was inaugurated in September 1935 to mark nineteen centuries since the death of Jesus. Canon Pierre Gard started the project, and it became the main achievement of his career. The bill came to roughly 42,000 francs, raised through gifts from local people and parishes across the region. Do not confuse it with other Christ the King monuments such as those in Lisbon, Świebodzin or Rio de Janeiro. This one is far more modest, but its alpine setting is hard to beat.
What will you see?
The figure rises from a massive base that holds a chapel and crypt. Inside you will find frescoes, the coats of arms of the thirteen districts of Valais and images of several saints. The terrace at the foot of the statue opens onto a wide panorama: the Rhône valley lies far below, and across it stand the Bernese and Pennine Alps.
How do you get there?
- On foot from Lens: about 1.3 km uphill along a path lined with the fourteen Stations of the Cross. It is steep but short.
- By car: a car park sits below the summit, leaving only a short walk.
- From Crans-Montana: a few kilometres away, so the statue fits easily into a day around the area.
Access to the hill is free and open all year.
When should you go?
Choose a clear part of the day so you can see the valley floor and the mountains opposite. In summer, aim for morning or late afternoon. In winter, check the path for ice, since snow often lingers. Allow about an hour for the climb and the visit.
Frequently asked questions
Is there an entrance fee? No. The site is free to visit all year.
How far is it from the centre of Lens? About 1.3 km on foot, along the Way of the Cross.
Can you go inside? The base contains a chapel with a crypt, but access depends on opening hours. The outdoor terrace is always open.
Can you drive there? Yes, there is a car park below the summit. You cover the last stretch on foot.
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