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The well-known Rio de Janeiro statue known as Cristo Redentor or "Christ the Redeemer" is the face of this incredible city. This breath taking piece of art overlooks Rio and continues to be admired and visited by millions of individuals since it was developed in 1931. The Rio de Janeiro statue is among the most amazing wonders of the world.

Totally Cool Fact #1 - The concept behind the statue was very first proposed in the middle of the 1850's when a Catholic Priest by the name of Pedro Maria Boss requested money to construct a religious monument inside the city. However, the notion was dismissed so the monument wasn't developed. In 1921 a monument was proposed once again by the Catholic Circle of Rio. They appealed to the public for support and donations to have something developed to represent the religious strength in Brazil.

Totally Cool Fact #2 - Christ the Redeemer statue (or Cristo Redentor as it really is identified in Portuguese) is a globally recognized symbol for peace. This wonderful statue took nine years for it to be finished, and is made from reinforced concrete and the outside is made of soapstone. These components were chosen for the Rio de Janeiro statue on account of their durable qualities and how easy they are to work with.

Totally Cool Fact #3 - The overall design and style of the statue was produced by a neighborhood designer; however, a French sculptor was commissioned to sculpt the Christ the Redeemer statue in Rio de Janeiro. The general cost of the statue was the equivalent of $250,000 today. In 1980 Pope John Paul II was scheduled to visit the Rio de Janeiro statue and major restoration was undertaken. In 2003 escalators and elevators were developed in order for people to get access to the viewing platform without being so complicated to get a great view.

Totally Cool Fact #4 - In 2008 very strong lightning struck Sugar Loaf the monument creating damage to the fingers, eyebrows and head. Work was started to restore these issues with the statue, and some of the soapstone was removed and replaced. The lightning rods also had to be repaired as a result of the lightning damage. The last restoration in 2010 concentrated on preserving the interior of Cristo Redentor. All of the stone that was used in the restoration was taken away from the quarry that the original pieces had been from. An amazing lighting system was also set up to light up the base from the monument, which is a great addition.

Totally Cool Fact #5 - In 2010 a senseless vandal spray painted the Rio de Janeiro statue. The mayor declared it a crime against the nation, and a reward was offered to catch the vandal. Cristo Redentor was voted as one of the New Wonders Of The World in 2007, and has been seen in a lot of films and documentaries for many years. At 38 meters tall and weighing 1.145 tonnes there is no doubt that this breathtaking monument is among the most remarkable man-made structures on earth.