Morro de Corcovado and the Cristo Monument

Tirelessly watching over the craziness of Rio de Janeiro, the Cristo (9 a.m.–7 p.m. daily) has stood since 1931 redeeming the city and its inhabitants from the top of Corcovado Mountain. The famous monument, called Cristo Redentor (Christ the Redeemer), was designed to celebrate the 100 years of Brazil’s independence from Portugal from 1822–1922. Better late than never; the 1,145-ton monument was lifted into place nine years later and has since become the very symbol of the city. Today, the Cristo Redentor is one of the world’s most recognized monuments. It stands 38 meters tall on the top of the Morro de Corcovado, which is on the edge of the Tijuca National Park—the large mountainous area sitting right in the middle of the city. Many of the foothills of Tijuca are loaded with favelas, poor and lawless neighborhoods of Rio, practically at the very feet of the Cristo.

From the principal viewing deck at the feet of the Cristo, you get a magnificent view of the city, from the Zona Norte (at the left hand of Christ) to the Zona Sul (at the right hand of Christ). He stands, more or less, looking out in the direction of Copacabana (justifiably where most of his attention is required). The monument was given some new features in 2000, including new lighting and new means of access to the top. You can now take one of the panoramic elevators up from the lower station, or take the high-tech escalator. If you prefer the original method, you can still climb the 222 steps, passing numerous souvenir shops and snack stands along the way. But first, you have to get up Corcovado Mountain to the lower platform and reception area. Access to the top of Corcovado Mountain is from the Flamengo neighborhood, where the streets begin their windy way up the hill. Many visitors take taxis up to the top (they are waiting at the bottom of the hill) or take one of the many vans that haul passengers in groups. The best way, however, is via the train that chugs up the hill (Rua Cosme Velho 513, tel. 21/2558-1329, www.corcovado.com.br). The station at the bottom was also recently revitalized and contains shops, relaxation areas, and a photographic exhibition of the history of the monument. It costs R$20 and operates the same hours as the monument.