Christ the Redeemer – A Brazilian Icon

Height and Dimensions

The statue stands 30 meters (98 feet) tall, excluding the 8-meter (26 feet) pedestal. Its outstretched arms span 28 meters (92 feet) from end to end.{video:https://rjwonderfulcity.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Cristo-1.mp4}

Construction

Built between 1926 and 1931, the statue was inaugurated on October 12, 1931. It was designed by engineer Heitor da Silva Costa and sculpted by French sculptor Paul Landowski.{video:https://rjwonderfulcity.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Cristo-2.mp4}

Material

Christ the Redeemer is made of reinforced concrete and soapstone (also known as steatite), a durable natural stone resistant to erosion and commonly found in Brazil.{video:https://rjwonderfulcity.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Cristo-3.mp4}

Visibility

Due to its privileged location atop Corcovado Mountain, the statue is visible from virtually all parts of Rio de Janeiro.{video:https://rjwonderfulcity.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Cristo-4.mp4}

World Heritage

In 2007, Christ the Redeemer was declared one of the New Seven Wonders of the World through a global voting process.{video:https://rjwonderfulcity.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Cristo-5.mp4}

Illumination

The statue is often illuminated at night, making it even more impressive when viewed from Rio de Janeiro after sunset.{video:https://rjwonderfulcity.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Cristo-6.mp4}

Cultural Significance

Besides being a major tourist and religious landmark, Christ the Redeemer symbolizes the hospitality of the Brazilian people and is an icon of the Christian faith.{video:https://rjwonderfulcity.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Cristo-7.mp4}