Rio's Christ statue closes to contain virus spread

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Rio de Janeiros Christ the Redeemer statue, which appears to balance improbably atop Corcovado mountain, has withstood the worst of what the elements could muster for nearly nine decades. Now it, too, is succumbing to the outbreak of the new coronavirus, according to AP.

The 125-foot-tall statue closed at day-end on Tuesday and won't reopen for at least a week. To contain the virus spread, Brazil's Chico Mendes Institute has ordered the closure of all national parks it oversees, including the one that's home to the Christ.

Tourists pose for photos in front of the Christ the Redeemer statue during a foggy day in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil on March 17. — AP
Tourists pose for photos in front of the Christ the Redeemer statue during a foggy day in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil on March 17. — AP

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