Cristo redentor angle low

Low-angle view of Christ the Redeemer, icon of Rio de Janeiro and Brazil, standing 38 meters tall atop Corcovado mountain.

About this subject

Christ the Redeemer is a 30 meter tall statue (38 meters including pedestal) located atop Corcovado Mountain in Tijuca National Park, Rio de Janeiro. Inaugurated on October 12, 1931, after about five years of construction, the work was engineered by Heitor da Silva Costa and sculpted by Frenchman Paul Landowski, with Romanian Gheorghe Leonida crafting the face. The statue is made of reinforced concrete and covered with approximately 6 million soapstone tiles, chosen for their durability and weather resistance.

Declared one of the New Seven Wonders of the World in 2007, the statue symbolizes Christian faith and the hospitality of Carioca people. Its outstretched arms, measuring 28 meters from tip to tip, suggest a universal embrace. The privileged location offers a panoramic view of the city, including Sugarloaf Mountain, Guanabara Bay, and the beaches of Copacabana and Ipanema. It is one of Brazil's most visited tourist attractions, receiving about 2 million visitors annually.

The construction faced logistical and financial challenges. Part of the funds came from donations from faithful and the Catholic Church. A small railway was used to transport pieces to the summit. In 2003, an elevator and escalator system was installed for easier access. The monument has undergone several restorations, including a major renovation in 2010, when damaged tiles were replaced and new LED reflectors were installed, reducing energy consumption by 60%.

Christ the Redeemer is not only a religious symbol but also a cultural and architectural icon. It appears in films, soap operas, and advertisements. In 2016, it was the backdrop for the Rio Olympics celebrations. The statue has been illuminated with special colors on commemorative dates, such as blue for World Autism Awareness Day. It is listed by the National Institute of Historic and Artistic Heritage (IPHAN) and is part of the UNESCO World Heritage site as the cultural landscape of Rio de Janeiro.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the exact height of Christ the Redeemer?

The statue is 30 meters tall, plus an 8 meter pedestal, totaling 38 meters. The outstretched arms measure 28 meters from tip to tip.

Where is Christ the Redeemer located and how to get there?

It is on Corcovado Mountain in Tijuca National Park, Rio de Janeiro. Accessible by train (Trem do Corcovado) or van, as well as trails and private vehicles.

Has Christ the Redeemer been damaged by lightning?

Yes, the statue is frequently struck by lightning due to its height and location. In 2014, lightning damaged the right thumb, but it was quickly repaired. A lightning rod system has been installed to minimize damage.