Awe-Inspiring Encounter: A Day at the Feet of Christ the Redeemer in Rio de Janeiro
Rio de Janeiro is a city that never ceases to amaze me. From its vibrant culture to its stunning landscapes, there’s always something new to discover here. But nothing compares to the feeling of standing at the feet of Christ the Redeemer, one of the most iconic statues in the world.
Located atop Corcovado Mountain, this 30-meter tall statue has been a symbol of Rio de Janeiro for over 85 years. It’s hard to describe the feeling of seeing it up close and personal – it’s awe-inspiring, humbling, and uplifting all at once.
The journey to Christ the Redeemer starts early in the morning, as you make your way through the lush Tijuca Forest. The forest is home to over 30 waterfalls, and the drive up the mountain is nothing short of breathtaking. As you get closer to the top, you can see the statue peeking out from behind the trees, beckoning you forward.
Once you reach the base of the statue, you’ll take a series of escalators and elevators to the top. The view from the platform is nothing short of spectacular – you can see the entire city laid out before you, with Sugarloaf Mountain in the distance. But it’s the statue itself that steals the show.
The sheer size of Christ the Redeemer is impressive enough, but it’s the detail that really takes your breath away. The statue was designed by Brazilian artist Heitor da Silva Costa and sculpted by French artist Paul Landowski. It took nine years to complete, with construction beginning in 1926 and finishing in 1931.
As you stand at the base of the statue, you can see every intricate detail up close – from the folds in Christ’s robe to the expression on his face. The statue is meant to represent peace, hope, and compassion, and it’s easy to feel those emotions wash over you as you stand there.
But it’s not just the statue itself that makes this experience so awe-inspiring. It’s the sense of community and unity that surrounds it. People from all walks of life come together here, united by their love for Rio de Janeiro and its most iconic symbol. You’ll hear people speaking in different languages, taking photos and selfies, and just soaking in the moment.
As you make your way back down the mountain, you can’t help but feel changed somehow. The experience of standing at the feet of Christ the Redeemer is one that stays with you long after you leave Rio de Janeiro. It’s a reminder to be grateful for what we have, to strive for peace and compassion in our lives, and to always keep exploring and discovering new things
I leave you waiting for my next adventures, see you tomorrow.
Mary