Christ the Redeemer: Check Who Built It, History and Interesting Facts

Find out about Christ the Redeemer, the iconic symbol of peace and faith in Rio de Janeiro. This majestic statue, recognized as a world wonder, boasts a fascinating history. Discover its key designers and sculptors, the meticulous construction process, and unique facts like its susceptibility to lightning and the hidden chapel within.

Ayukta Zisha
Jun 29, 2025, 02:09 EDT
Christ the Redeemer
Christ the Redeemer

Located in Rio de Janeiro, Christ the Redeemer is one of the world's most prestigious places; it is a powerful symbol of peace, faith, and Brazil's identity. Situated on top of Mount Corcovado, this huge statue of Jesus Christ looks at the city with eternal grace and grandeur. Recognized as one of the world's seven wonders, it attracts millions of tourists and believers every year. Beyond its breathtaking architecture, the memorial reflects the deep-rooted Catholic heritage and cultural pride of Brazil. In the early 20th century, Christ the Redeemer was more than just a religious symbol- it was a beacon of unity, hope, and flexibility. Its attractive history inspires tourists to come here from worldwide.

Check Out: Louvre Museum: Check History, Significance and Interesting Facts

Key Features

Feature

Details

Name

Christ the Redeemer (Cristo Redentor)

Location

Mount Corcovado, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

Height

30 meters (98 feet), 8 meters (26 feet) pedestal

Arm Span

28 meters (92 feet)

Material

Reinforced Concrete and Soapstone

Designer

Heitor da Silva Costa (Brazil)

Main Sculptor

Paul Landowski (France)

Face Sculptor

Gheorghe Leonida (Romania)

Construction Period

1922–1931

Unveiled On

October 12, 1931

Purpose

Symbol of Christianity and peace

UNESCO Status

World Heritage Site (since 2012)

Recognition

One of the New Seven Wonders of the World (2007)

Chapel Inside

Chapel of Our Lady of Aparecida (at the base)

Annual Visitors

Over 2 million tourists

Who Made Christ the Redeemer?

Christ the Redeemer was a colossal sculpture made by artists and engineers from many countries. The concept of early design was done by the Brazilian engineer Heitor da Silva Costa, who inspected the project from planning to execution. The statue itself was sculpted by French-Polish artist Paul Landowski, who prepared the main structure in France before sending it to Brazil. Christ's complex face was coined by Romanian artist Gheorghe Leonida, whose work added human expression and peace to the memorial. Brazilian engineers, architects, and workers played an important role in constructing a large-scale statue on Mount Corcovado between 1922 and 1931. This construction included innovation and accurate, border-crossing cooperation, making it a truly global effort in creating a timely Brazilian icon.

Interesting Facts About Christ the Redeemer

who built (1)

Lightening Strike: The statue is struck several times a year due to lightening. In 2014, a finger portion was damaged during a storm, but was later repaired.

Secret Room: There is a small chapel inside the base called the Chapel of Our Lady of Apresida, which is used for weddings and baptisms.

Construction Challenges: The idol was built in pieces and collected above the mountain, a difficult achievement with limited technology in the 1920s.

Environmental Risk: Wind, rain, and changes in temperature require frequent restoration efforts in continuous exposure.

Tourist Hotspot: With the panoramic views of Rio, more than 2 million people do it annually, including Sugarloaf Mountain and Copacabana Beach.

Soapstone Skin: Light-colored soapstone was imported from Sweden and selected for its heat resistance and ease of use.

Large-Scale Foundation: Despite being so long, the idol is designed to bear high winds and natural changes; its base is deeply embedded in the granite of Corcovado.


Ayukta Zisha
Ayukta Zisha

Content Writer

    Ayukta Zisha is a Content Writer and Published Author with a Master’s degree in English Literature. She also holds a certification in Digital Marketing from IIT Delhi. Deeply passionate about art, aesthetics, and literature, Ayukta brings a unique creative flair to her writing. A dedicated bibliophile, she continues to explore and share her love for words through engaging and insightful content. You can reach out to her at ayukta.jisha@jagrannewmedia.com

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