Cristo redentor angle low

Christ the Redeemer in Rio de Janeiro is one of the world's most iconic statues, standing 38 meters tall atop Corcovado Mountain.

About this subject

Christ the Redeemer is an Art Deco statue of Jesus Christ located atop Corcovado Mountain, 710 meters above sea level, within the Tijuca National Park in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. Inaugurated on October 12, 1931, its construction began in 1922 to commemorate the centennial of Brazil's Independence. The monument stands 30 meters tall, with an 8-meter pedestal totaling 38 meters, and its outstretched arms span 28 meters. The structure weighs about 1,145 tons, built of reinforced concrete and covered with soapstone tiles, a material that withstands weather and gives the statue its light color.

The statue was designed by Brazilian engineer Heitor da Silva Costa and sculpted by Frenchman Paul Landowski, with Romanian Gheorghe Leonida responsible for the face. A symbol of Christianity and the city, it is one of Brazil's most visited tourist attractions, drawing approximately 2 million people annually. In 2007, it was voted one of the New Seven Wonders of the World in a global poll. Its location provides a panoramic view of Guanabara Bay, Sugarloaf Mountain, and Rio's beaches.

The low-angle perspective of the photograph emphasizes the statue's grandeur and monumental scale, accentuating its silhouette against the sky. This angle is common in tourist and artistic photography, reinforcing the sense of majesty and protection that the statue conveys. The monument has undergone renovations and restorations over the decades, including scenic lighting and accessibility improvements. As of 2024, it remains a global icon, recognized in cultural and cinematic representations.

Trivia: The statue was built in parts and assembled on site. Concrete pieces were made in special molds and lifted by cranes. Soapstone, chosen for durability, came from Minas Gerais. Christ the Redeemer has faced storms and lightning, but its reinforced structure holds strong. In 2014, lightning damaged the thumb of the right hand, which was subsequently restored.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the total height of Christ the Redeemer?

The statue is 30 meters tall, plus an 8-meter pedestal, totaling 38 meters. The arm span is 28 meters.

Where is Christ the Redeemer located and how can it be visited?

It stands atop Corcovado Mountain in Tijuca National Park, Rio de Janeiro. Access is by train (Trem do Corcovado), van, or trail, and the site receives about 2 million visitors annually.

Who built Christ the Redeemer?

It was designed by engineer Heitor da Silva Costa, sculpted by Frenchman Paul Landowski, with the face by Gheorghe Leonida. The construction was Brazilian, using local materials, and inaugurated in 1931.