Rio de Janeiro’s Christ the Redeemer Statue Lit Up in Worldwide Coronavirus Solidarity

Brazil’s famed Christ the Redeemer statue in Rio de Janeiro was lit up with images of the flags of countries that have reported positive coronavirus tests, as confirmed diagnoses of the virus spread around the world.

The colossal statue of Jesus Christ, which stands 100 feet tall and is positioned to look out over the city of Rio de Janeiro, also showed images of map shapes for the continents afflicted. Images of the words “pray together” in many languages were also projected onto the statue.

The Christ the Redeemer statue lit up with solidarity messages, Brazil.

Earlier this week, Brazil’s government had announced that the Christ the Redeemer site would be closed to visitors for a week or longer. The statue is a popular tourist destination and the most iconic image of Rio.

Brazil has over 600 confirmed coronavirus cases, according to a tracking dashboard provided by the Johns Hopkins Whiting School of Engineering. And Brazil’s Health Minister, Luiz Henrique Mandetta, is warning the public that the COVID-19 novel virus is spreading “en masse” through portions of the country.

The government has been slow to acknowledge the threat posed by the virus. Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro has been quoted as saying that the virus’s threat to the country is exaggerated and he has even recently shared handshakes and selfies with supporters.

But, on Wednesday, President Bolsonaro appeared to have altered course, announcing on TV clear warnings for Brazilians to prepare for difficult times ahead. At least 18 Brazilian government officials have now tested positive for the virus.