The iconic cross on the Sky Ridge, standing at 1,508 m above sea level in Nerja, was shattered by vandalism that toppled it from its perch. Residents and the city administration reacted decisively, announcing a restoration campaign aimed at reinstating the cross in its original location. The symbol, a beacon for fishermen and a goal for hikers, holds immeasurable historical and cultural value.
Mayor José Alberto Armijo condemned the disrespect and ordered immediate action. An investigation has been launched to identify the culprits while the Environmental Council oversees the reconstruction logistics. The 1971‑installed cross had been reinforced in 2016 and now requires further protection.
Armijo’s remark resonated: "We want the cross to remain a symbol of Nerja and a respected space." This call reflects the city’s commitment to preserving the natural, tourist, and scenic heritage of the region. The intervention will be carried out by local experts in cooperation with civil protection services.
The Cross of Pico del Cielo is more than a metal structure; its legend dates back 350 years when a German sailor installed it after surviving a shipwreck. Today the symbol still guides fishermen and hikers, becoming an essential landmark of the Almijara Mountains. The city demands structural reinforcement to prevent future damage and safeguard Andalusian identity.