The statue of Christ the Savior (Christ the Redeemer)

The statue of Christ the Savior (Christ the Redeemer) is considered to be one of the most magnificent buildings of mankind. Its size and beauty combined with panoramic views from the observation deck at the foot of the statue, capture the spirit of anyone who was there. Not for nothing, this monument is a symbol of not only Rio de Janeiro but all over Brazil as a whole.The construction of the monument began in 1922 and ended after 9 years, October 12, 1931. Interesting detail, due to technological imperfection to create a statue in Brazil at that time was not possible. Therefore, it was made in France, and then the parts were transported to the place of its future installation. First by water to Brazil, then on the miniature railway to the top of Corcovado mountain. Total construction cost the equivalent of 250 thousand U.S. dollars at that time.Made the statue of Christ the Savior of reinforced concrete and soapstone, and has a weight of 635 tons. The height of the hill on which it is installed - about 700 meters. The height of the statue of 39.6 meters, of which 9.5 m is the height of the pedestal. The scope of hands of Christ is 30 meters. Due to its size and location, the statue is clearly visible from a distance. And under certain lighting, it looks really divine.But even more impressive views of Rio de Janeiro, opening from the observation deck, located at the foot of the statue. To rise which can be on the freeway, and then the stairs and the escalators.Twice, in 1980 and 1990, carried out a major overhaul of the statue. As well, several times carried out preventive work. In 2008 the statue was struck by lightning and slightly damaged it. Work on restoration of the outer layer on the fingers and the head of the statue, as well as the installation of new lightning conductors began in 2010.It was then that the statue of Christ the Savior and were subjected to the first and the only in its history, the act of vandalism. Someone climbed the scaffolding, made paint drawings and inscriptions on the face of Christ.Anyway, people who want to get their share of popularity, at the expense of the monument was always in abundance.Each year, the monument will rise about 1.8 million tourists. Therefore, when in 2007 he was named the new seven wonders of the world, in their list and the statue of Christ the Redeemer.