Cristo de la Concordia

Made of steel and cement, the Cristo de la Concordia (Christ of Peace) sculpture in Cochabamba is the largest statue of Christ in the world. It surpasses its more famous counterpart in Brazil by just a few centimeters.

Construction of the colossal statue began on July 12, 1987, and was completed on November 20, 1994.

Both the Cristo Redentor (Christ the Redeemer) statue in Rio de Janeiro and this in Bolivia are 33m (108 ft.) tall, because Christ died when he was 33 years old. Cochabambinos say the extra height is appropriate, since Christ actually lived "33 years and a bit."

From the base of the statue there are fine views of the valley of Cochabamba and Tunari, the highest peaks in the area. On Sunday, visitors can climb to the top of the statue itself for even more magnificent views.

Cristo de la Concordia was modeled on the famous Cristo Redentor statue in Rio, but locals believe this one has a more loving appearance. The Copacabana version does have more human features and its arms are outstretched in a welcoming embrace.