#22: The Origins of Christ the Redeemer
Between 1922 and 1931, the iconic Art Deco representation of Jesus Christ was crafted in Rio, a creative partnership between French sculptor Paul Landowski, Brazilian engineer Heitor da Silva Costa, and others, including Romanian Gheorghe Leonida, for the facial features. Perched atop the 700-meter Corcovado mountain within Tijuca National Park, this monumental statue overlooks Rio de Janeiro. Weighing 635 metric tons, it’s a testament to Art Deco design and engineering prowess.
Christ the Redeemer is a global Christian emblem and a cultural landmark of Rio and Brazil, celebrated as one of the World’s New Seven Wonders. Enhancements in 2003 and 2010, including escalators, walkways, and elevators, improved access to the statue’s platform, making visits easier.