Best Things to Do:
A Visit to the World-Famous Christ Statue
Christ the Redeemer is the iconic landmark of Rio de Janeiro, and indeed, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. Read here about the statue and why it attracts visitors from all around the globe.
Christ the Redeemer - The Famous Christ Statue in Rio
The Fascinating Structure of Christ the Redeemer
It is likely the combination of an impressive Christ statue and a breathtaking panoramic view that makes this spot, located in the south of Rio de Janeiro, one of the most popular places in the world. Whether tourists or pilgrims, young or old - the monumental Christ statue is visited by millions of people from all over the world throughout the year. This imposing statue, which sits on a pedestal that houses a chapel, was completed in 1931, about nine years later than originally planned. It was intended to be inaugurated in 1922 for the 100th anniversary of Brazil's independence, which was also the reason for building the statue. However, due to financial issues, it was finished nearly ten years after construction began and was officially inaugurated on October 12, 1931.
Heitor da Silva Costa was the construction engineer who created the designs for this impressive statue. Reinforced concrete was used for the interior of the statue, while the exterior is covered with a layer of soapstone to protect the entire monument from environmental influences. Situated on the 710-meter-high Corcovado Mountain, standing on an eight-meter base, 'Christ the Redeemer' towers an incredible 30 meters into the sky. A truly fascinating structure that overlooks all of Rio.
A Must-See Tourist Highlight over Rio
It's not just the impressive statue itself that makes a visit absolutely worthwhile, but also the many details surrounding the statue. Even during the 20-minute ride on the cog train that takes you up to Corcovado Mountain, nestled in Tijuca National Park, visitors can hardly contain their amazement. Those who feel fit and want a bit of exercise can also choose to climb the mountain themselves, for instance, by hiking through the Tijuca rainforest. Here you can enjoy the unique rainforest landscape and its fascinating wildlife along the way.
Guru Tip: To take the cog train up to Corcovado, you need to book your ticket in advance and cannot go up to the Christ statue on the same day. Alternatively, a van can take you up the mountain, which you can book spontaneously in the morning. Also, be sure to start your tour as early as possible, because the later you arrive, the more crowded it will be.
Once you reach Corcovado and climb the steps to the statue, take a moment to pause, look up, and enjoy the view! When I first truly saw Christ the Redeemer before me, I was absolutely overwhelmed. The Christ statue is simply gigantic: perched high above Rio de Janeiro, with arms spread over the metropolis. After you conquer the final steps to the terrace, an amazing view awaits you: spectacular sights of Copacabana, the sea of Rio's houses, Brazil's lush natural landscape, and the shimmering blue sea.
Romantic Weddings and Daring Selfies
Many tourists describe the area around Christ the Redeemer as a magical place and use it for orientation to navigate through this vibrant Brazilian metropolis. But the famous statue serves not only as a geographical landmark; Father Omar Raposo, rector of the monumental Christ statue, is sure of that. On the 80th anniversary of Christ the Redeemer, he described the sanctuary as follows: 'Christ spreads his arms. He represents life, love, and hope. This monument is a special sanctuary - the walls are the horizon, the roof is the sky.' It was only in 2006 that the landmark of Rio was designated as a Catholic pilgrimage site. The chapel holds daily masses, often including baptisms and weddings. Some couples who are already married even use this unique location to renew their marriage vows after many years.
However, those who come here are not necessarily looking for the perfect spot for an upcoming wedding; many also visit the statue to enjoy the fantastic view of Rio and its surroundings. Especially under good weather conditions when the sky is clear, you can enjoy wonderful vistas here. And when you're up there, you must capture this amazing moment. This is what globetrotter Lee Thompson thought, who felt that just the viewpoint alone wasn't enough, so he actually posed for a selfie at the very top of the famous Christ statue in Rio de Janeiro, with a breathtaking view of the Brazilian metropolis stretching out behind him. Adventurous or enviable? Well, that's for you to decide; personally, I wouldn't dare to do that.
Want to Visit Rio?
Simply fascinating, this monumental statue of Christ the Redeemer in Rio de Janeiro, don't you think? If you're ever in Brazil and visit Rio de Janeiro, you must not miss a trip here, as Christ the Redeemer has been recognized as one of the New Seven Wonders of the World following an international vote by a jury of esteemed architects!