Christ the Redeemer, Brazil
 · 1 min read
 · Harrison Fordable
Table of contents

The Timeline of Christ the Redeemer's Construction

Introduction

Christ the Redeemer is one of the most iconic landmarks in Brazil and the world. Standing tall above the city of Rio de Janeiro, this colossal statue represents not only religious devotion but also an artistic and engineering achievement. Understanding how long it took to construct this monument gives insight into the dedication and effort involved in its creation.

Details

  • The initial idea of a large statue atop Corcovado Mountain originated in the mid-1850s.

    • An early proposal was made by Dom Pedro I but did not gain traction.
      • It wasn't until 1920 that a committee was formed to promote the construction of a statue.
      • The Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Rio de Janeiro played a significant role in reviving interest.

  • The blueprint for the statue was designed by French sculptor Paul Landowski in 1921.

    • He collaborated with engineer Heitor da Silva Costa to finalize the design.
      • The project officially commenced on April 4, 1922.
      • The planned design features an Art Deco style, marking a significant artistic trend.

  • The construction process took almost five years, with numerous challenges.

    • Major materials used included soapstone and reinforced concrete.

      • The choice of materials was crucial for the statue's durability and appearance.

    • Construction progressed in several stages:

      • 1922-1924: The foundation and base were built.
      • 1924-1926: The statue itself was assembled, piece by piece, at the site.

  • The statue was finally inaugurated on October 12, 1931.

    • A grand ceremony marked the completion, attended by thousands of people.
      • The statue has since become a symbol of peace and a landmark of Rio de Janeiro.

Conclusion

In total, the construction of Christ the Redeemer spanned nearly five years, from 1922 to its completion in 1931. The journey from concept to reality was fraught with obstacles, but the result is a globally recognized symbol of faith and culture. Today, it draws millions of visitors each year, who come to admire both its artistic brilliance and the breathtaking view of the city below.