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Culture & Lifestyle • Landmark

Christ the Redeemer

Christ the Redeemer (Portuguese: Cristo Redentor) is a large Art Deco statue of Jesus Christ in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.

By Ethan Anderson| Reviewed by Olivia Bennett, Standards & Fact-Checking Lead| Updated July 26, 2026|2 min read| Fact-checked

Christ the Redeemer (Portuguese: Cristo Redentor) is a large Art Deco statue of Jesus Christ in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. Completed in 1931, it stands on Corcovado mountain in Tijuca National Park and is widely recognized as a symbol of Rio de Janeiro and Brazil.

History

Planning for the monument began in the early 20th century, with construction carried out from 1922 to 1931. The statue was officially inaugurated in 1931.

Design and construction

The statue was designed by Paul Landowski and built under the supervision of Heitor da Silva Costa, with contributions from Albert Caquot and Gheorghe Leonida. It is made of reinforced concrete and soapstone.

Location and setting

Christ the Redeemer is located on Corcovado mountain inside Tijuca National Park, overlooking Rio de Janeiro. Its hilltop position makes it one of the city’s most recognizable landmarks.

Cultural significance

The statue has become an international symbol of Rio de Janeiro and Brazil, and a well-known Christian monument worldwide. It is also one of the most visited tourist attractions in Brazil.

Key facts

  • The statue was constructed between 1922 and 1931.
  • It stands on the summit of Corcovado mountain in Rio de Janeiro.
  • The monument is made of reinforced concrete clad with soapstone.
  • It is widely described as the largest Art Deco-style sculpture in the world.
  • Christ the Redeemer is a major symbol of Christianity and a cultural icon of Brazil.
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Canadian context

Christ the Redeemer is relevant to Canadian readers as one of the best-known landmarks in Latin America and a globally recognized cultural and religious symbol frequently included in world-heritage and travel discussions.

Frequently asked questions

What is Christ the Redeemer?
Christ the Redeemer is a monumental statue of Jesus Christ in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
When was Christ the Redeemer completed?
It was completed and inaugurated in 1931.
How tall is the statue?
The statue is 30 metres tall, excluding its 8-metre pedestal.
Where is Christ the Redeemer located?
It stands on Corcovado mountain in Tijuca National Park, overlooking Rio de Janeiro.
Who designed Christ the Redeemer?
The statue was designed by Paul Landowski, with Heitor da Silva Costa overseeing construction.

References

  1. Wikipedia — https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Christ_the_Redeemer_(statue)
    Supports: Construction dates, height, materials, location, designers, and cultural significance.
  2. Britannica — https://www.britannica.com/topic/Christ-the-Redeemer
    Supports: Completion date, dimensions, materials, and significance as a Rio de Janeiro and Brazil symbol.
  3. Paineiras Corcovado — https://www.paineirascorcovado.com.br/cristo-redentor/?lang=en
    Supports: Inauguration date, planning history, and construction details.
  4. RIOTUR — https://www.riotur.rio/en/que_fazer/christtheredeemer/
    Supports: Location, tourism significance, and New 7 Wonders reference.
  5. Google Arts & Culture — https://artsandculture.google.com/story/sanctuary-of-christ-the-redeemer-congrega%C3%A7%C3%A3o-do-sant%C3%ADssimo-redentor/_wVRd1us2c-sLg?hl=en
    Supports: Sanctuary context and location within Tijuca National Park.