Christ Redeemer

Christ Redeemer Fast Facts

Erected in 1931, Cristo Redentor stands 125 feet tall and weighs 1,000 tons.
It is located atop the 2,330-foot Corcovado mountain overlooking Rio de Janeiro.
To visit, purchase tickets at the Cosme Velho station for a 20-minute scenic cog-train ride to the top (note: for the best view, sit on the right.)
On arrival, take in breaktaking vistas of the bay, Sugarloaf Mountain, and Copacabana and Ipanema beaches,
Open daily 8:30AM - 7PM

Up for consideration in 2007 as one of The New Seven Wonders of the World, Christ Redeemer is one of the world's best known landmarks, both as a major religious icon and sculptural colossus.

Overlooking Rio de Janeiro in Brazil, the idea for the 125-foot statue had its origins in 1921 when religious and civic leaders urged the erection of a monument to mark the centenary of Brazil's independence in 1922.

It would be years, however, before arrangements to build the massive strulpture and pedestal were made, and preliminary sketches and designs by Heitor de Silva Costa and Polish sculptor Paul Landowski approved.

Finally, a full decade after it was first conceived, Christ Redeemer rose high atop Corcovado mountain overlooking the entire city, and was inaugurated amid much pomp and ceremony on October 12th, 1931.

First-time visitors to Rio are still struck by the enormity of the statue, which can be easily accessed by car, taxi, or a 90-minute walk up the mountain (not recommended!).

For the best means of transport, however, use the special train that clickety-clacks up the mountain, offering more spectacular views the steeper it climbs.

Upon arrival, take the 222 steps up the pedestal, or take the recently-installed (and often crowded) elevator that eases the journey to the top for the closest view possible of Christ Redeemer.

Related Web Sites:

• Facts and pictures of Christ the Redeemer

• Projeccto Cristo Redentor (English version)