Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, Jan 8, 2013 / 12:12 pm
Pope Benedict XVI will get a bird's eye view of the famous Christ the Redeemer statue that overlooks Rio de Janeiro during his visit to the city for World Youth Day 2013.
Archbishop Orani Tempesta of Rio de Janeiro told reporters that while it has not yet been determined if the Pope will personally visit the monument, "(h)e will take a ride around it via helicopter."
Standing nearly 100 feet tall, the well-known statue is located atop Corcovado mountain in the Tijuca Forest National Park, above the city where preparations for the 27th World Youth Day are being made.
Recently named one of the wonders of the modern world, the Christ the Redeemer Shrine will be open to visitors 24 hours a day during World Youth Day, which will be held in the city July 23-28.
Archbishop Tempesta said groups of 25 to 30 young people of various nationalities will be organized to visit the shrine and pray for the world and for peace.
Nearly two million young people are expected to attend World Youth Day in Rio this summer.