Christ the Redeemer

Picture of the statue overlooking Rio with caption: Guardian of the city.

About Christ the Redeemer

Standing 98 feet tall with arms outstretched, Christ the Redeemer overlooks Rio de Janeiro as a symbol of peace and faith. Completed in 1931, it is made of reinforced concrete and soapstone, designed by Brazilian engineer Heitor da Silva Costa and French sculptor Paul Landowski.

Perched atop the Corcovado Mountain, the statue offers panoramic views of Rio, including landmarks like Sugarloaf Mountain and Copacabana Beach. It has become an iconic symbol of Brazil and a UNESCO World Heritage site.

"A symbol of hope and unity for people around the world."

Christ the Redeemer has been embraced by the world as a universal symbol of hope.

Construction Facts:

Construction of Christ the Redeemer began in 1922 and was completed in 1931. The statue was designed to withstand strong winds and weather conditions atop Corcovado Mountain.

The outer layers are made of soapstone, chosen for its durability and ease of use. The inner structure consists of reinforced concrete to provide stability and support.

Engineers used a combination of traditional sculpting techniques and innovative engineering to create this iconic monument.

Cultural Impact

Christ the Redeemer has become a cultural icon, representing Brazilian Christianity and hospitality. It attracts millions of visitors annually, contributing significantly to Rio's tourism industry.

The statue has been featured in numerous films, music videos, and artworks, symbolizing peace and unity worldwide.

Local festivals and events often incorporate the image of Christ the Redeemer, highlighting its importance in Brazilian culture and identity.