Christ redeemer corcovado

Christ the Redeemer on Corcovado: a 30-meter Art Deco monument inaugurated in 1931, symbol of Rio and Brazil.

About this subject

Christ the Redeemer, located atop Corcovado Mountain at 710 meters (2,330 feet) above sea level, is one of the most recognized statues in the world. Inaugurated on October 12, 1931, after nine years of construction, the monument was designed by Brazilian engineer Heitor da Silva Costa and sculpted by French artist Paul Landowski. The statue stands 30 meters (98 feet) tall, plus an 8-meter (26-foot) pedestal, totaling 38 meters (125 feet). Its structure is reinforced concrete covered with thousands of triangular soapstone tiles, chosen for their durability and weather resistance. Christ the Redeemer weighs 1,145 tons, and its open arms span 28 meters (92 feet), symbolizing welcome.

The monument is set within Tijuca National Park, the largest urban rainforest in the world. Visitors can reach the summit by the Corcovado Train, a 3.8-kilometer (2.4-mile) ride through Atlantic Forest, or by van or hiking trails. The site receives over 2 million tourists annually, making it one of the most visited landmarks in the Southern Hemisphere. The panoramic view from the top includes Guanabara Bay, Sugarloaf Mountain, Maracanã Stadium, and other Rio postcards.

Culturally, Christ the Redeemer was named one of the New7Wonders of the World in 2007 in a global popular vote. Beyond its religious significance for Catholics, it has become a universal symbol of peace and hospitality. The nighttime lighting, composed of LED reflectors, can change colors for special occasions, such as awareness campaigns or holidays. The statue has been struck by lightning several times, but its structure withstands thanks to a lightning rod system.

Ongoing maintenance is essential: every three years, a specialized team tightens bolts and replaces damaged soapstone pieces. In 2019, a panoramic elevator was installed to improve accessibility for people with reduced mobility. The image of Christ with open arms, especially in angles like fish-eye wide-angle, reinforces the statue's grandeur and its integration with the Rio landscape.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the total height of Christ the Redeemer?

The statue is 30 meters (98 ft) tall, plus an 8-meter (26 ft) pedestal, totaling 38 meters (125 ft). Each arm spans 28 meters (92 ft).

How can I get to Christ the Redeemer?

You can take the Corcovado Train from the Cosme Velho neighborhood, or use authorized vans. There are also hiking trails within Tijuca National Park.

Why is Christ the Redeemer covered in soapstone?

Soapstone was chosen for its resistance to heat, cold, and moisture, as well as being easy to cut and waterproof. It protects the concrete structure and gives the statue its characteristic tone.