World’s Largest Cross in Effingham, Illinois

Towering above the intersection of Interstates 57 and 70 in southern Illinois, the Cross At The Crossroads, a crucifix nearly 200 feet tall and made with 180 tons of steel is seen by over 50,000 travelers as they drive by every day, but was built just two feet short of an FAA regulation that would have required it to have a beacon visible by airplanes.

The cross is deliberately kept at under 200 feet to avoid an FAA regulation that would require a light at the top, yet still be bigger than a 190-foot high cross in Groom, Texas. Having won the religious size contest, at the base is a welcome center and a lighting display, with a plaque for each of the Ten Commandments. A kiosk also accepts donations to keep the lights running.

Unique automotive blessing events are also held at the site of the cross, such as Corvettes at the Cross and a Blessing of the Bikes, where vehicles are blessed so they can take to the road under God’s protection.