The Christ the Redeemer statue, standing high above Rio de Janeiro, is recognized globally as a symbol of Brazil and a monument of faith. Completed in 1931, this figure overlooks the city from the peak of Corcovado Mountain. The materials chosen for its construction were selected for their aesthetic qualities and their ability to withstand the harsh tropical climate and high-altitude conditions. This article explores the materials that give the statue its distinctive appearance and enduring strength.
The Dual Composition: Reinforced Concrete and Soapstone
The statue’s core structure is composed of reinforced concrete, which provides the internal strength and stability for the massive figure. This concrete skeleton, designed by French engineer Albert Caquot, was a modern choice for the time, allowing the statue to be built with a hollow interior and a relatively slender profile. The concrete was poured on-site, forming the framework that supports the entire 635-metric-ton monument.
The exterior of the statue is covered in a mosaic veneer made from thousands of small, triangular tiles of soapstone, also known as steatite. This outer layer was applied to the concrete surface to create a smooth, finished appearance. The soapstone was sourced from quarries in Minas Gerais, Brazil, and was chosen for several practical reasons.
Soapstone is a metamorphic rock known for its durability and resistance to heavy rains and strong winds common on the mountain summit. The material does not expand or contract significantly with temperature changes, which helps prevent cracking in the mosaic. It also retains its pale color over time, ensuring the statue maintains its luminous appearance against the sky.
Engineering Decisions and Construction Logistics
Reinforced concrete was chosen for the internal structure due to its cost-effectiveness and suitability for the statue’s cross-shaped design. Engineers determined that a steel frame would be more susceptible to weathering and corrosion in the humid, exposed environment. The concrete provided a robust, monolithic structure capable of withstanding wind forces and the figure’s immense weight.
The construction process required all materials to be transported up the steep slopes of Corcovado Mountain. The existing narrow-gauge Corcovado Railway carried the cement, steel, and other supplies to the construction site. This railway was the only practical means of moving the heavy components required for the project.
The statue’s detailed parts, the head and hands, were sculpted in clay by French-Polish artist Paul Landowski in his Paris studio. These models were broken down into numerous sections and shipped across the Atlantic to Brazil. The final assembly and casting of the concrete, guided by Brazilian engineer Heitor da Silva Costa, took place entirely on the mountain peak.
Dimensions and Cultural Significance
The Christ the Redeemer statue stands 30 meters (98 feet) tall, resting on an 8-meter (26-foot) pedestal that houses a small chapel. The figure’s outstretched arms span 28 meters (92 feet) from fingertip to fingertip, creating the iconic cross shape. This scale makes the monument the largest Art Deco sculpture in the world.
The monument is situated at the peak of the 700-meter (2,300-foot) Corcovado Mountain, offering a view over the city of Rio de Janeiro. Its location and design have cemented its status as a global symbol of Christianity and a major cultural landmark. The statue was recognized internationally in 2007 when it was named one of the New Seven Wonders of the World.