Magnificent Statues : From Rio de Janeiro’s Christ the Redeemer to New York’s Statue of Liberty and beyond, statues have long been used as sources of inspiration around the world. From commemorating important figures or significant events through to simply inspiring awe; here we take a look at seven magnificent statues around the globe that continue this trend today.
From China’s majestic Buddha of Leshan to Italy’s iconic Statue of David, these seven statues will certainly leave an impression. Each has its own story to share and is testament to the artistry and craftsmanship of those responsible for its creation. So let’s take a look at these 7 magnificent statues!
1) Christ the Redeemer, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
Rio de Janeiro’s Christ the Redeemer statue stands as one of the world’s most well-known statues, constructed as a symbol of peace on Mount Corcovado in 1931 and standing 38 meters (125 feet tall and 635 tons), its arms extend 27 meters (89 feet wide allowing it to be visible throughout most parts of Rio.
Christ the Redeemer stands on 77 solid concrete blocks weighing over 1000 tons each and is estimated to attract an estimated 1.5 million visitors per year. As one of the New 7 Wonders of the World and a popular tourist site in Brazil, it attracts about one-seventh of a billion visitors annually.
2) The Great Buddha Of Leshan, China
The Great Buddha of Leshan stands as one of the world’s most stunning statues, located in Sichuan Province of China and carved out of a cliff face rising 71 meters (233 feet). Standing 26 meters (83 feet), its beauty can be found through an intricate series of caves that connect it to nature. Carved between 984-1034.
Experts do not understand its original purpose, though most likely a statement of power, it was built during a period when Chinese forces were fighting for unification of various states and it serves as a memorial to those who gave their lives during that fight. Today, it remains one of China’s New Seven Wonders of the World and should not be missed when traveling through this vast country.
3) Statue Of Liberty, New York, USA
The Statue of Liberty stands as one of America’s most iconic landmarks, located in New York Harbour and given as a gift by France. Built between 1875-1882 by Frederic Auguste Bartholdi sculptor, she stands 93 meters (305 feet), weighs 450 tons, and comprises an iron frame covered by copper outer covering.
At its completion, it was the tallest statue ever constructed at that time – serving as a symbol of peace and friendship and welcoming immigrants into America. Today it stands amongst one of the New Seven Wonders of the World as an iconic site worth seeing during any trip to New York.
4) Statue Of David, Florence, Italy
The Statue of David is one of the world’s most iconic statues and is one of Florence’s must-see attractions. Michelangelo created this piece between 1501 and 1504 as an iconic work in Italian Renaissance sculpture; three years were required for him to finish its creation.
The Statue of David is one of the best-known works of Renaissance art, known for its realistic depictions of real-life situations and people. This statue shows King David striking an iconic pose after defeating Goliath – making it one of the New Seven Wonders and making Florence its epicenter.
5) Motherland Calls, Volgograd, Russia
The Motherland Calls statue located in Volgograd, Russia is one of the New Seven Wonders of the World and serves as a monument for those who lost their lives during World War II at Stalingrad Battlefront.
This statue, known as ‘The Motherland Calls You to the Battle,’ stands a whopping 85 meters (279 feet). As the tallest monument worldwide since Christ the Redeemer was completed in 1931, this one-of-a-kind monument remains an icon. Constructed out of concrete, granite and steel it still reigns supreme as one of its hallmarks of beauty and wonderment.
6) Moai Statues, Easter Island, Chile
Easter Island’s Moai statues are some of the world’s most striking figures. Carved out of rock, these giant figures have long been sources of fascination and have served as symbols for religion and myth. Each Moai statue boasts its own story behind it, making Easter Island itself an essential visit for any traveller.
Easter Island residents remain deeply divided on how they managed to construct the Moai statues that stand upon Easter Island, though most agree they were made out of rock. Others speculate they may even have used wood; whatever their construction method, these statues must be seen on any trip!
7) The Thinker, Paris, France
The Thinker statue located in Paris, France is one of the world’s most acclaimed pieces of artwork. Created by French sculptor Auguste Rodin in 1884 as part of his monumental sculpture called ‘The Gates of Hell’, this iconic work of art stands as one of its main attractions today.
The Thinker statue symbolizes artistic processes and their ongoing struggle between creative and destructive forces. While visiting this statue itself is worthwhile, also consider visiting its replica in Central Park in New York City for added context.
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Conclusion
These seven statues are some of the world’s most well-known landmarks. From Christ the Redeemer in Brazil to Motherland Calls in Russia, each is an absolute must-see when traveling around. Every single one tells a unique tale while showcasing incredible artistry and craftsmanship by their creators; serving as sources of inspiration for travellers as they represent what the best of what the world has to offer.