Cristo redentor angle low

A low-angle view of Christ the Redeemer, emphasizing its grandeur and the Art Deco details of the statue atop Corcovado Mountain.

About this subject

Christ the Redeemer is a 30-meter tall statue of Jesus Christ (including its 8-meter pedestal), located atop Corcovado Mountain in Tijuca National Park, Rio de Janeiro. Inaugurated on October 12, 1931, after nine years of construction, the monument is a symbol of Christianity and one of Brazil's most famous landmarks. The statue was designed by engineer Heitor da Silva Costa and sculpted by Frenchman Paul Landowski, with the collaboration of Romanian artist Gheorghe Leonida, who crafted the face.

The monument is made of reinforced concrete and clad in soapstone, a material chosen for its durability and ease of carving. The soapstone, sourced from Minas Gerais state, consists of talc, chlorite, and magnesite, giving the statue a grayish hue and a texture that withstands weather. The Art Deco style is evident in the elongated lines and simplified geometry of the open arms, which span 28 meters from tip to tip.

Christ the Redeemer was voted one of the New Seven Wonders of the World in 2007 by the New7Wonders Foundation. Today, it attracts about 2 million visitors annually, who ascend by train or van to the viewing platform. The statue underwent major renovations, including LED lighting installation in 2010 and replacing the outer cladding in 2014. From the top, the panoramic view encompasses Guanabara Bay, Sugarloaf Mountain, Copacabana and Ipanema beaches, and Tijuca Forest.

Fun fact: during construction, workers climbed daily up the steep slopes carrying tools and concrete. The statue was declared a National Historic and Artistic Heritage site in 1973. In 2016, for the Rio Olympics, the monument was 'painted' with a projected digital graffiti design, sparking controversy and debate about public art. Christ the Redeemer remains an icon of faith and Brazilian identity, featuring in films, music, and advertisements.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the exact height of Christ the Redeemer?

The statue stands 30 meters tall, with the body measuring 22 meters and the pedestal 8 meters. The outstretched arms span 28 meters.

How long did the construction of Christ the Redeemer take?

Construction lasted nine years, from 1922 to 1931. The work included the foundation, reinforced concrete structure, and soapstone cladding.

What material covers the statue?

The statue is clad in soapstone, sourced from Minas Gerais. This material is durable and flexible, ideal for withstanding weather variations and the passage of time.