Christ the King statue restored to former glory in Gort

AN ICONIC statue in the heart of Gort has been successfully restored.

After Gort Tidy secured funds from the Built Heritage Investment Scheme, the successful restoration of the Christ the King statue materialised. Assistance was also received by Galway County Council to clean and protect the statue.

Gebel and Helling Conservation undertook the restoration project, the Cork based company was recommended by the Heritage Council. The statue, a marble masterpiece created by renowned Irish sculptor Albert Power, RHA, had suffered the effects of acid rain and environmental factors over the years.

Jim Ricks, Secretary of Gort Tidy Towns, initiated the restoration project last year, following extensive research and collaboration with the Galway County Heritage Office. The cleaning process involved a careful two-pass steam cleaning and the application of a breathable sealant to safeguard the statue for future generations.

Volunteers with Gort Tidy Towns have said, “the difference before and after the restoration is truly remarkable”. The statue, originally commissioned by local woman Anne Coen in memory of her son, Martin, in 1933 has been returned to its former splendour.

Gort Tidy Towns would like to express their sincere gratitude to all involved in this project, particularly the Heritage Council, Galway County Council, and Gebel and Helling Conservation.