the idea to
build the monument was first presented by a priest in 1859, but
was only reconsidered as in 1921, as the country was
preparing to celebrate its 1st centenary.
construction work
began on 1922 - it was funded by
donations from parishes and archdioceses from all over
brazil. the design was prepared by artist carlos oswald, the french
sculptor paul ladowski, and the engineer heitor da silva costa.