Brazil : Tours and Excursion

Christ the Redeemer

Christ the Redeemer is an Art Deco statue of Jesus Christ in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, created by French sculptor Paul Landowski and built by Brazilian engineer Heitor da Silva Costa, in collaboration with French engineer Albert Caquot. The statue stands 30 meters (98 ft) tall, not including its 8-meter (26 ft) pedestal, and its arms stretch 28 meters (92 ft) wide. It is made of reinforced concrete and soapstone, and weighs approximately 635 metric tons (625 long, 700 short tons). The statue is a symbol of Christianity across the world and has become a cultural icon of both Rio de Janeiro and Brazil.

History & Origins

The idea for erecting a large statue atop Corcovado was first suggested in the mid-1850s, when Catholic priest Pedro Maria Boss requested financing from Princess Isabel to build a large religious monument. The project was not approved until 1921, when the Catholic Circle of Rio proposed a landmark statue of Christ on the 100th anniversary of Brazilian independence. The design was chosen through a competition, and construction began in 1922, taking nine years to complete.

The statue was inaugurated on October 12, 1931, in a grand ceremony attended by thousands. It was declared one of the New Seven Wonders of the World in 2007 and remains one of the most visited tourist attractions in Brazil.

Architecture & Features

The statue's design combines Art Deco and modernist styles, with a streamlined form and minimal detailing. The outer layers are made of soapstone, chosen for its durability and ease of shaping. The internal structure consists of reinforced concrete, a relatively new material at the time of construction. The statue's face was sculpted by Gheorghe Leonida, a Romanian artist living in Paris.

The monument includes a chapel at its base, dedicated to Nossa Senhora Aparecida (Our Lady of Aparecida), the patron saint of Brazil. Visitors can access the statue via a cog-wheel train, van, or hiking trail, with the most popular route being the train ride through the Tijuca Forest.

Legends & Facts

During construction, workers would often inscribe their names on the inside of the statue, leaving behind hidden signatures. The statue was struck by lightning in 2008 and 2014, causing minor damage to the fingers and head, which were later repaired. In 2010, the statue underwent a major restoration, including cleaning, repairing cracks, and installing new lighting.

The statue's arms are slightly disproportionate to its body, a deliberate choice by the designers to ensure it would appear correctly proportioned when viewed from below. The original design included Christ holding a globe in one hand, but this was later simplified to the current open-armed pose.

Tourist Tips

The best time to visit is early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy the best lighting for photos. Wear comfortable shoes, as there are steps leading up to the statue. The site is wheelchair accessible via elevators and ramps.

Nearby

• Sugarloaf Mountain: A iconic peak with cable cars offering panoramic views of Rio.
• Copacabana Beach: One of the most famous beaches in the world, known for its vibrant atmosphere.
• Tijuca National Park: A lush urban rainforest with hiking trails and waterfalls.
• Santa Teresa: A historic neighborhood with colonial architecture and artistic vibe.
• Maracana Stadium: One of the largest football stadiums in the world, hosting major sporting events.

Practical FAQ for Travelers

What are the opening hours?

The statue is open daily from 8:00 AM to 7:00 PM.

What is the best time to visit?

Early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and heat.

How much time should I allocate for the visit?

Plan for at least 2 hours, including transportation to the site.

Are there any dress code requirements?

No strict dress code, but modest attire is recommended.

Is the site accessible for wheelchair users?

Yes, there are elevators and ramps for accessibility.

Can I bring my pet?

Pets are not allowed at the monument.