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Christ the Redeemer: Rio's Iconic Symbol

Visit Christ the Redeemer, an iconic symbol of Rio de Janeiro offering breathtaking views and a glimpse into Brazilian history and culture.

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Christ the Redeemer, a colossal Art Deco statue of Jesus Christ, stands atop Corcovado Mountain in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, within Tijuca National Park. Completed in 1931, the 98-foot statue has become a global symbol of Christianity and Brazilian culture, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the city and coastline.

A brief summary to Christ the Redeemer

  • Parque Nacional da Tijuca, Rio de Janeiro, Alto da Boa Vista, State of Rio de Janeiro, BR
  • Visit website

Local tips

  • Purchase tickets in advance, especially during peak season, to avoid long queues for the train or van.
  • Visit early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy better visibility.
  • Bring water and wear sunscreen, as the mountaintop can be hot and exposed.
  • Be aware of your belongings, especially during the high season, as pickpockets can be present.
  • Check the weather forecast before you go; the views are best on a clear day.
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Getting There

  • Train

    The most traditional and scenic way to reach Christ the Redeemer is by taking the Corcovado Train from Cosme Velho station. To get to Cosme Velho, you can take a bus (like the “Circular 1” from Leblon or Copacabana) or a taxi/Uber. At Cosme Velho station, purchase your train ticket, which includes round-trip and entrance to the monument. The train journey through Tijuca National Park takes about 20 minutes. Trains depart approximately every 30 minutes. A round-trip ticket costs approximately R$122.50 for adults.

  • Van

    Official vans depart from three locations: Largo do Machado, Copacabana (Praça do Lido), and Paineiras Visitor Center. You can purchase tickets at the departure points or online. The van includes round-trip transportation and entrance to the monument. From Largo do Machado and Copacabana, the cost is around R$163. The ride to Paineiras takes about 30 minutes. From Paineiras, you'll board a second official van for the final ascent. The cost for the van from Paineiras alone is around R$107.

  • Driving

    You can drive to the Paineiras Visitor Center, but parking is limited and fills up quickly. There is no parking available at the summit of Christ the Redeemer. From the Paineiras Visitor Center, you must take an official van for the final part of the journey. There is no parking fee, but the van transport costs approximately R$35. Alternatively, you can park near the Corcovado train station and take the train up to the statue. Parking is available at the Parish of Christ the Redeemer on Rua das Laranjeiras, 500 or Rua Cosme Velho, 60. Expect to pay for parking. From there, follow the train guidance.

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Discover more about Christ the Redeemer

Towering 2,310 feet above Rio de Janeiro, the Christ the Redeemer statue is more than just a monument; it's a cultural icon and a symbol of hope. The statue stands 98 feet (30 meters) tall, with arms stretching 92 feet (28 meters) wide, and is perched atop a 26-foot pedestal. Constructed between 1922 and 1931, it was designed by Brazilian engineer Heitor da Silva Costa and French sculptor Paul Landowski. Initially conceived in the 1850s, the idea to erect a Christian monument on Corcovado Mountain gained momentum in the early 20th century. Concerns about a perceived decline in religious faith motivated the Catholic community to reclaim Rio for Christ. The project was funded largely by donations from Brazilian Catholics. The final design, an Art Deco masterpiece, features Jesus with open arms, symbolizing peace and welcome. Made of reinforced concrete and clad in thousands of soapstone tiles, the statue has withstood the test of time, though it requires ongoing maintenance. The face was sculpted by Romanian artist Gheorghe Leonida. In 2006, a chapel was consecrated at its base. The monument is a major tourist destination, receiving approximately 2 million visitors annually. The viewpoint offers unparalleled views of Rio's beaches, mountains, and vibrant cityscape.

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