As the Rio Olympics starts, here are the best pictures of Christ The Redeemer

It is one of the most recognisable landmarks in the world, towering over one the of the great cities - which this month hosts the Olympics. The statue of Christ the Redeemer is a destination for pilgrims and tourists alike when in Rio De Janeiro. This week, sports stars have flocked to the feet of one of the best-known depictions of Jesus. Meanwhile, the Olympic torch was carried past, and greeted by the Archbishop of Rio.

The statue was finished in 1931 and was announced as one of the seven wonders of the modern world in 2007 along with Petra in Jordan, The Colosseum in Rome and the Taj Mahal in India. Although there are other similar statues across the world, none are as famous and iconic as Christ the Redeemer.

During the football World Cup, hosted by Brazil two years ago, the statue was a prominent part of the TV coverage and we can expect to see more footage during the Olympics and Paralympics.

Here we look at some of the most stunning photographs of this beautiful monument.

News
European court accused of overreach after ruling against Poland in disability abortion case
European court accused of overreach after ruling against Poland in disability abortion case

The European Court of Human Rights (ECHR) has come under criticism after ruling against Poland in a case concerning abortion on the grounds of disability. 

Christians invited to start 2026 in prayer for the nation
Christians invited to start 2026 in prayer for the nation

A nationwide prayer initiative involving thousands of churches and Christians is set to take place at the start of the New Year.

Terrorist attack on church-run clinic in eastern DRC leaves dozens dead
Terrorist attack on church-run clinic in eastern DRC leaves dozens dead

A late-night assault on a Catholic health facility in northeastern Democratic Republic of Congo has left around 20 civilians dead.

Calls for prayer as court hears sacked chaplain's appeal
Calls for prayer as court hears sacked chaplain's appeal

Christians are being asked to pray as the Employment Appeal Tribunal hears the case of sacked chaplain Rev Dr Bernard Randall.