By Alberto Friscione

For many years, the coral reefs have been under immense pressure due to the large number of visitors engaging in diving and snorkeling. Despite efforts to limit mass tourism, it has been difficult to protect these natural treasures.

In light of this, the visionary Ramón Bravo came up with a brilliant idea: to submerge a religious symbol underwater—a sacred place where seafarers could come to pray, reflect, or honor their loved ones. He believed that if there was something people still respected, it was religious symbols. Perhaps—just perhaps—this could inspire them to stop throwing trash into the sea.

He also proposed placing the sculpture about 100 meters away from the reef, so that divers would spend less time directly over the corals. With a clear vision in mind, Ramón gathered a group of friends to share the idea.

One of the first to join was Professor Fidel Villanueva, now the official historian of Isla Mujeres. Another enthusiastic supporter was Salvador Vidal, of Lorenzillo’s, who along with Luis Mirabentz, helped shape the project. As in many of his ventures, Ramón Bravo worked his magic: in no time, many people came on board. I remember Nika, strongman Crisanto, El Chilero, Facundo…

The cross was cast in Mexico City by sculptor Enrique Miranda. Made of bronze, it stands nearly three meters tall and weighs over a ton. At its center is a hollow Christ figure, symbolizing the Ascension—the moment when the Lord rose to the heavens. The hollow design also allows ocean currents to pass through, reducing structural strain.

The cross was finally submerged near the reef known as Los Manchones on August 17, 1994, as part of the celebrations marking the anniversary of beautiful Isla Mujeres.

Since then, it has been visited by hundreds of tourists, divers, and believers. It’s more than a monument; it’s a call to consciousness and respect for marine life.

I’m sure Ramón Bravo would be proud to know that one of his dreams is still alive, standing tall beneath the waves, championing the cause of ocean life.

At one of the events celebrating the cross, Salvador Vidal had T-shirts made with its image and a phrase that says it all:

“Beyond all things, there is the sea.” www.solobuceo.com

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