Christ the Redeemer stands atop Corcovado Mountain in Tijuca National Park, above Rio de Janeiro. Up close, the Art Deco statue is striking; from its summit, you can look across the city, mountains, Guanabara Bay and the Atlantic. A small chapel sits beside the monument, and the journey up by cog railway passes through forest. Clear weather gives the widest views, but clouds can shift quickly. Arrive early for more room to walk around and take photos, and check the forecast before setting out.
The statue and its design
Christ the Redeemer is an Art Deco statue of Jesus Christ on Corcovado Mountain in Rio de Janeiro. It was completed in 1931, after work began in 1922. Brazilian engineer Heitor da Silva Costa designed the project with French sculptor Paul Landowski; engineer Albert Caquot also contributed. The face was sculpted by Romanian artist Gheorghe Leonida.
The statue is made of reinforced concrete clad in triangular soapstone tiles. Its outstretched arms span 92 feet, and the figure is 98 feet tall, separate from the stone pedestal beneath it. From the platform, the scale of the monument is especially clear against the forested slopes and city below.
Views from Corcovado
The summit looks out over Rio’s mountains, city and coastline. On a clear day, the panorama includes Sugarloaf Mountain, Guanabara Bay, Copacabana and Ipanema beaches, Tijuca Forest and the Atlantic. The small chapel beside the statue is another stop at the summit.
Cloud can cover the peak and block views of both the monument and the city. Conditions can change during a visit: fog has been known to lift after a wait, but visibility is not assured. Check the forecast and, if you can choose your day, aim for clear weather.
Getting to the summit
You can reach the site by cog railway, certified van or hiking trail. The cog railway travels through Tijuca Forest, so the ascent is part of the visit as well as transport. Hiking paths offer a different way up through the forest. Facilities at the summit include elevators and motorized stairs for visitors who need them.
Book tickets in advance, particularly for busy periods, and allow time for queues. Some travelers report longer waits for the tram, so arriving early can help you make more of the visit before crowds build. Bring a bottle of water; filtered water is available at the top. There is also a snack counter, though items there can be costly.
FAQ
Where is Christ the Redeemer?
The statue is on Corcovado Mountain in Tijuca National Park, Rio de Janeiro.
How can you get to Christ the Redeemer?
You can go up by cog railway, certified van or hiking trail. The railway passes through Tijuca Forest.
When is the best time to visit?
Early morning is a good choice for fewer crowds. Clear weather gives the best chance of seeing Rio from the summit.
Is Christ the Redeemer accessible?
The site has elevators, motorized stairs and wheelchair-accessible entrance, seating, restrooms and parking.
