Europe's tallest Virgin Mary statue unveiled in rural Poland

A new concrete monument standing 55.6 metres (182 feet) tall has been erected, placing it head‑and‑shoulders above Rio de Janeiro’s iconic Christ the Redeemer statue. The figure, constructed entirely of reinforced concrete, surpasses the 30‑metre height of the Christ the Redeemer sculpture (38 metres including its pedestal) and has quickly become a prominent addition to the city’s skyline.

The towering structure was unveiled as part of a municipal initiative aimed at expanding Rio’s cultural attractions and boosting tourism. Engineers noted that the monument’s design required advanced reinforcement techniques to ensure stability on the mountainous terrain where it was installed. Local officials anticipate that the new landmark will draw additional visitors, complementing the existing draw of Christ the Redeemer while offering a distinct visual experience for both residents and tourists.