Christ the Redeemer (Rio de Janeiro)
The Christ the Redeemer statue is one of the most recognizable landmarks in the world. Standing high atop Mt. Corcovado, this 98-foot tall statue of Jesus watches over and protects the people of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. With his arms open wide, it also stands as a symbol of Rio’s warm hospitality, welcoming visitors from all over the world.The idea for a Christian monument to be placed atop Mount Corcovado was first suggested in the 1850’s by Vincentian priest Pedro Maria Boss. He wished to honor the Princess Regent of Brazil, Princess Isabel, although the project was never approved. However, the idea was broached again in 1921 by the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Rio de Janeiro. This time, the Brazilian government granted permission for the statue to be built. The first stone was laid on April 4, 1922, celebrating the 100th anniversary of Brazil’s independence from Portugal.Money for construction of the Christ the Redeemer statue was raised privately, with the largest portion coming from the church. Contests were held to choose a designer, with local engineer Heitor da Silva Costa making the winning bid. In collaboration with French sculptor Paul Landowski, construction of the statue began in 1926.