Christ the Protector: A New Brazilian Landmark

Rio de Janeiro’s Christ the Redeemer is no longer the tallest statue of Jesus in Brazil. The newly completed Cristo Protetor — Christ the Protector — statue in Encantado has claimed that title.

1. Christ the Protector Statue Completion

The statue was officially completed on April 22, according to its website. Standing at a height of 143 feet, this impressive statue is located in Rio Grande do Sul, approximately 975 miles southwest of the famous Christ the Redeemer that overlooks Rio atop Mount Corcovado.

Although the new statue is finished, it won’t be open to visitors until the first half of 2023 as the surrounding tourist complex is still under construction. The organization stated in a post last week that the area will eventually feature shops, restaurants, and various scenic viewpoints.

2. Comparative Height of Statues

Designed by sculptor Genesio Gomes Moura (Ceara) and his son, Markus Moura, one of the most notable features will be an elevator leading visitors to a heart-shaped area approximately 112 feet tall.

As per general supervisor Artur Lopes de Souza, the design includes a glass opening where visitors can capture stunning views of the surrounding valley.

When not considering pedestals, Christ the Protector is the tallest in the world at 123 feet (37.5 meters), surpassing Poland’s Christ the King and Bolivia’s Cristo de La Concordia, both standing at a height of 108 feet (33 meters). Rio’s Christ the Redeemer, however, is 98 feet tall (30 meters), plus an additional 26-foot pedestal.

When including pedestals, Christ the Protector is ranked as the third tallest statue.

3. Growing Interest from Tourists

Even while under construction, the 1,700-ton Cristo Protetor, with a 128-foot (39-meter) arm span, has attracted significant attention, with over 37,500 visitors experiencing the statue’s progress through guided tours that take place on weekends and holidays from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. for approximately $4 USD.

The town of Encantado and the surrounding Vale do Taquari region is gearing up for an influx of visitors, as noted by local organizations in March. They recommend enhancing the visit by exploring nearby destinations such as Porto Alegre (about two hours away), Gramado (three hours away), and Bento Gonçalves (90 minutes away).