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Christ the Redeemer, a 38-meter Art Deco statue in Rio de Janeiro, is one of the most iconic Christian monuments worldwide, attracting millions of visitors each year.

About this subject

Christ the Redeemer, perched atop Corcovado Mountain in Tijuca National Park, is a national symbol of Brazil and the city of Rio de Janeiro. Inaugurated on October 12, 1931, the statue is made of reinforced concrete and clad in soapstone, a durable and easily carved material. It stands 38 meters tall (including the 8-meter pedestal) with an arm span of 28 meters, weighing approximately 1,145 tons.

The construction was initiated by the Catholic Church to mark the centenary of Brazil's independence, but faced financial and technical hurdles. Engineer Heitor da Silva Costa led the project, with collaboration from French sculptor Paul Landowski and Romanian artist Gheorghe Leonida, who sculpted the face. The statue was built in pieces and transported via a railway specially constructed for Corcovado.

Beyond its religious significance, Christ the Redeemer is a prominent geographic landmark. From its base, visitors can see Sugarloaf Mountain, Guanabara Bay, and Rio's famous beaches. In 2007, it was voted one of the New7Wonders of the World in a global poll. The statue undergoes constant restoration due to exposure to wind, rain, and lightning, it is struck by 3 to 6 bolts annually, requiring a robust lightning protection system.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the exact height of Christ the Redeemer?

The statue is 30 meters tall, plus an 8-meter pedestal, making a total of 38 meters.

Where is Christ the Redeemer located?

It stands atop Corcovado Mountain in Tijuca National Park, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.

How was Christ the Redeemer constructed?

It was built in reinforced concrete and clad in soapstone, with sections transported up the mountain via a dedicated railway.