Christ the Redeemer, or Cristo Redentor in Portuguese, is more than just a monument; it is a symbol of Brazilian spirituality and multicultural identity. Conceived in the early 20th century, the idea for the statue was first proposed by the Catholic Circle of Rio as a symbol of peace and to counteract what they perceived as an "epidemic of godlessness." The monument was designed by Brazilian engineer Heitor da Silva Costa and created by French sculptor Paul Landowski, taking nine years to complete and inaugurated on October 12, 1931.
Standing 30 meters tall, atop the 710-meter peak of the Corcovado mountain in the Tijuca Forest National Park, the statue is a fusion of Art Deco style with modern construction techniques of the era. The choice of Christ with open arms was both a religious and a cultural statement, symbolizing peace and welcoming all.
The statue has become a cultural icon of both Rio de Janeiro and Brazil. It reflects the warm and open-hearted nature of the Brazilian people and has become a beacon for visitors from around the globe. Christ the Redeemer is not just a religious symbol but also a testament to human creativity and perseverance, having withstood the elements for nearly a century. The monument was also chosen as one of the New Seven Wonders of the World in a global poll conducted in 2007, which speaks volumes about its significance to people around the world.