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Monument · Poços de Caldas, MG
Christ the Redeemer of Poços de Caldas
30-metre monument atop the Serra de São Domingos, at 1,686 meters altitude, inaugurated in 1958, with views over the whole town. It is reached by cable car, by road or by trail.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Christ the Redeemer of Poços de Caldas
The Cristo Redentor of Poços de Caldas stands at the highest point of the Serra de São Domingos, the Morro de São Domingos, at 1,686 meters altitude. Inspired by the monument in Rio de Janeiro, it was conceived by José Raphael dos Santos Neto and inaugurated on May 13, 1958. It is 30 meters tall: a 14-meter pedestal and a 16-meter statue.
The work was quick: it began in February 1958 and was completed in three months. The pieces were manufactured in Campinas, and a road linking the center to the top of the ridge was opened for construction. A state law recognizes the monument as being of significant cultural interest to Minas Gerais.
From the top you can see the entire town, the historic center ensemble and the outline of the surrounding ranges, which form the rim of the ancient volcanic caldera. The Serra de São Domingos is listed as a landscape heritage and natural monument of Minas Gerais, and the municipal park that protects it covers more than 250 hectares.
There are three ways up: by cable car, which departs from the center and crosses about 1,500 meters above the forest; by car via the paved road; or on foot by the trail that starts at Fonte dos Amores. Near the Cristo is Pedra Balão, a formation of large, stacked rocks.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
One to two hours at the top, including the cable car ride and the walk to Pedra Balão. Hiking up on the trail from Fonte dos Amores takes most of a morning.
Best time
On clear days, more common from April to September. In late afternoon the light enhances the town; check the cable car schedule for descent. In winter it is very windy at the top.
How to get there
Cable car: board in the center near Parque José Affonso Junqueira; the trip to the top takes a few minutes. By car, via the paved road of Serra de São Domingos. On foot, by the trail that starts at Fonte dos Amores, with a steep ascent.
Tip
Bring a jacket even in summer. The cable car is paid separately; check the current price list. For the trail, wear sturdy footwear and bring water.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Christ the Redeemer of Poços de Caldas
How tall is the Cristo Redentor of Poços de Caldas?
Thirty meters: 14 m of pedestal and 16 m of statue. It stands at 1,686 meters above sea level, atop the Serra de São Domingos.
How long does the Poços de Caldas cable car take?
The ride from the city center to the top of the Serra de São Domingos takes just a few minutes, over a route of about 1,500 meters above the forest.
Can you hike up to the Cristo of Poços de Caldas?
Yes, via the trail that starts at Fonte dos Amores. It’s a steep climb that requires fitness, sturdy footwear and water.