Christ redeemer corcovado

Christ the Redeemer atop Corcovado mountain is one of Brazil's greatest symbols and a postcard of Rio de Janeiro.

About this subject

Christ the Redeemer is an Art Deco statue of Jesus Christ atop the Corcovado mountain in the Tijuca National Park, Rio de Janeiro. Standing 30 meters tall (38 meters with pedestal) and weighing 1,145 tons, it was inaugurated on October 12, 1931, after five years of construction. The project was led by engineer Heitor da Silva Costa, sculpted by French artist Paul Landowski, and the face was modeled by Romanian sculptor Gheorghe Leonida. The structure is reinforced concrete covered in soapstone mosaic tiles, which resist weathering and give the statue its light color.

Perched at 710 meters above sea level on Corcovado, the location ensures the statue is visible from almost anywhere in Rio. The idea for a religious monument on the hill dates back to the 19th century, but the project materialized after the 1922 Week of Modern Art fueled nationalism. Construction involved an innovative material transport system using a train up the mountain, later becoming the Corcovado Train, now a major tourist attraction.

In 2007, Christ the Redeemer was voted one of the New Seven Wonders of the World in a global poll. The statue is a cultural icon, appearing in films such as 'Rio' and 'Fast & Furious 5', and hosts religious and sports events, including a papal blessing during 2013's World Youth Day. Night illumination, upgraded to LEDs, highlights its silhouette and uses renewable energy, aligning with sustainable practices.

Annual visitation exceeds two million tourists, who arrive by train, van, or hiking trails. At the base, a chapel dedicated to Our Lady of Aparecida holds weddings and masses. Constant upkeep, including cleaning and restoring the mosaic tiles, is necessary due to lightning strikes and strong winds. The monument is listed by the National Institute of Historic and Artistic Heritage (IPHAN) and remains a symbol of faith and Brazilian hospitality.

Frequently Asked Questions

How tall is Christ the Redeemer?

The statue is 30 meters tall, plus an 8-meter pedestal, for a total of 38 meters. Its arm span is 28 meters.

Who built Christ the Redeemer?

The project was by Brazilian engineer Heitor da Silva Costa, the hands and head were sculpted by Frenchman Paul Landowski, and the face by Romanian Gheorghe Leonida. Execution was a collaboration between Brazilian engineers and European artists.

Has Christ the Redeemer ever been struck by lightning?

Yes, the monument is frequently hit by lightning due to its height and location. In 2014, lightning damaged the thumb of the right hand, which was subsequently restored.