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The Christ the Redeemer statue, a 38-meter Art Deco monument in Rio de Janeiro, is one of the world's most recognized landmarks, symbolizing faith and Brazilian hospitality.

About this subject

Christ the Redeemer stands atop Corcovado Mountain, 710 meters above sea level, inside the Tijuca National Park. The statue was inaugurated on October 12, 1931, after nine years of construction. The project was a collaboration between engineer Heitor da Silva Costa, French sculptor Paul Landowski, and Romanian artist Gheorghe Leonida, who sculpted the face. The reinforced concrete structure clad in soapstone weighs about 1,145 tons. The outstretched arms measure 28 meters from tip to tip, symbolizing welcome. The statue was inspired by the Art Deco style, popular at the time. In 2007, it was voted one of the New Seven Wonders of the World in a global poll. The monument is managed by the Archdiocese of Rio de Janeiro and receives around 2 million visitors annually, drawn by both faith and the panoramic view of the city. The night lighting was modernized in 2010 with LEDs, reducing energy consumption. Christ the Redeemer has undergone several renovations, including cleaning and restoration of the soapstone cladding, which suffers from weather and pollution. The statue is a cultural icon, appearing in films, soap operas, and sporting events, such as the opening of the Rio 2016 Olympics. Interestingly, the soapstone used for the cladding comes from the same region in Minas Gerais that supplied material for the works of Aleijadinho.

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 outstretched arms measure 28 meters.

How long did it take to build Christ the Redeemer?

Construction took nine years, from 1922 to 1931. The monument was inaugurated on October 12, 1931.

Has Christ the Redeemer ever been damaged by lightning?

Yes, the statue is frequently struck by lightning due to its height and location. In 2014, a lightning bolt broke part of the right thumb, which was restored.