About Christ the Redeemer: Christ the Redeemer stands with open arms atop Corcovado Mountain, overlooking the city of Rio de Janeiro. Completed in 1931, the statue has become a symbol of both Brazil and Christianity worldwide. Visitors ride a cog train or drive up the mountain, then climb steps or take an elevator to reach its base. Symbol of a City — It is one of the most recognizable statues in the world and a defining symbol of Rio de Janeiro.

Location: Rio de Janeiro, Brazil · Built: Completed in 1931 · Height: 30 m (98 ft) tall · Purpose: Religious & cultural monument · Designer: Paul Landowski · Materials: Reinforced concrete & soapstone · Unesco Status: Part of a World Heritage Site (2012) · Visitors: About 2 million per year · Lightning Strikes: Struck several times