The famous statue of Christ the Redeemer in Rio de Janeiro is already in competition, Reuters reported, quoted by BTA.

In the small town of Encantado in southern Brazil, a taller figure of Christ was erected to attract tourists.

"Christ the Patron" is 43 meters high with a pedestal compared to the statue in Rio, which is 38 meters.

It is built of concrete on a metal structure on a hill above the city, but will be open to visitors next year, said Robison Gonzachi, vice president of the project's sponsoring organization.

"This is the greatest Christ in the world," he told Reuters.

There is also an observation area in the statue, from where visitors can see the surroundings through a large heart-shaped window.

The Art Deco statue in Rio de Janeiro was built over nine years and was unveiled in 1931. It is one of the new wonders of the world and has become a symbol of Rio de Janeiro.

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Rio de Janeiro