Cristo Redentor (Christ the Redeemer), Rio de Janeiro (must see)

Cristo Redentor, or Christ the Redeemer, is a statue of Jesus Christ located at the peak of Corcovado Mountain in the Tijuca Forest National Park. The statue, which is known as one of the "New Seven Wonders of the World," looks over the city of Rio de Janeiro. It can be seen from afar, but most visitors to Rio plan a trek up the mountain to get a closer look at the statue.

Christ the Redeemer was constructed between 1922 and 1931 by sculptors Paul Landowski and Gheorghe Leonida and engineers Heitor da Silva Costa and Albert Caquot. The Art Deco statue itself is 98 feet high and sits atop a 26-foot pedestal. The outreached arms are nearly as wide as the statue is tall, giving it both an imposing and welcoming visage. The statue is made from concrete and soapstone. Estimates show that it weights 635 metric tons.

Visitors can reach the monument by hiking up the 220 steps that lead directly to the feet of the statue. However, this path is sometimes closed due to public safety. Luckily, there are other options to reach the statue.

Visitors can take a train from Trem do Corcovado station. Trains depart every 20 to 30 minutes and take about 20 minutes to reach the entrance. An official van is also available for those who don't want to or can't hike the mountain.

From the statue's base, visitors can see a panorama of the city, the Atlantic Ocean and the iconic Sugarloaf Mountain. Near the base of the statue is a cafe, a built-in chapel and a gift shop.

Why You Should Visit:
Christ the Redeemer is one of the most iconic statues on earth. At the statue's base, you will experience a beautiful view of Rio de Janeiro

Tips:
Visitors should plan on heavy crowds, especially if they visit mid-day or on a weekend.