7 Iconic Facts About Christ The Redeemer - Page 3 of 9

The Original Design Was Different

Unlike its current appearance, the statue did not always look like this. The original concept for the statue had it holding a globe in one hand and a crucifix in the other; this was approved by the project’s organizers. Christ with a Ball was the statue’s designated moniker. The original plan was scrapped in favor of a new one with two open arms. Those who voted for the new design cite its symbolic meaning as the reason. The arms’ cross form represents Christ’s welcoming embrace.