Of course, the most famous statue in Rio (and the world) is Christ the Redeemer, arms wide open, blessing both locals and tourists. But that's not the only notable statue in town. Various stone or bronze figures are scattered throughout the city, honoring personalities often connected to the location where they stand. For example, the singer Cazuza, a regular at the bars in Baixo Leblon, is now immortalized in the square that bears his name. Meanwhile, Clarice Lispector, who discreetly roamed the Leme neighborhood, often dined with friends at La Fiorentina. Numerous artists are commemorated across the city, attracting visitors who come for a photo op with their idols.
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This statue references "Conversa de Botequim," one of Noel Rosa's most famous songs, depicting him being served by a waiter. The empty chair beside him invites passersby to sit down. Unveiled in 1996, it's Rio's first interactive monument.
Boulevard Vinte e Oito de Setembro (Vila Isabel).
In 2007, the Brazilian Academy of Letters unveiled this sculpture of the poet, created by artist Otto Dumovich, on his birthday, April 19.
Avenida Presidente Wilson, near 203 (Centro).
A bronze monument honoring the author of "The Posthumous Memoirs of Brás Cubas," this statue was unveiled in 1929 outside the Brazilian Academy of Letters.
Avenida Presidente Wilson, near 203 (Centro).
A statue honoring Marielle Franco was inaugurated in 2022 at Buraco do Lume, where the brutally murdered councilwoman often engaged with her voters.
Praça Mário Lago (Centro).
Having lived in Leme for over a decade, the writer was honored with a statue in the neighborhood in 2016. Created by artist Edgar Duvivier, it features Lispector with her dog, Ulisses.
Caminho dos Pescadores (Leme).
This statue, requested by Leme residents, was erected in 2002. Barroso, known for "Aquarela do Brasil," lived in the area for over four decades. Sculpted by Leo Santana, the bronze statue weighs nearly 200 kilograms.
Avenida Atlântica, 458 (Leme).
Mario Pitanguy sculpted this life-sized bronze statue of the three-time Formula 1 champion in 2019, showing him atop a podium, celebrating with a Brazilian flag.
Av. Atlântica, 1702 (Copacabana).
Installed in 2002 to commemorate the poet’s centenary, this bronze statue, based on a photo by Rogério Reis, attracts thousands of tourists. Created by Leo Santana.
Avenida Atlântica, in front of Avenida Rainha Elizabeth (Copacabana).
After lending his name to a street in Leblon, this Bahian singer and composer received a statue in his honor in 2008, in Copacabana, where he lived until his death. The statue was inspired by a photograph by Evandro Teixeira.
Colônia dos Pescadores, Posto 6 (Copacabana).
In 2014, the Arpoador received a statue of the singer and composer, marking the 20th anniversary of his death. Sculpted by Christina Motta.
Avenida Francisco Bhering, s/nº (Ipanema).
This panoramic steel bench features a cutout silhouette of the writer, cartoonist, and journalist, designed by Chico Caruso and nicknamed "The Thinker of Ipanema." Created by architect Jaime Lerner in 2013, it reflects Fernandes' love of watching the sunset from that spot.
Praia do Arpoador (Ipanema).
On World AIDS Day in 2016, a bronze statue of the singer was installed in the square that bears his name in Leblon, a favorite haunt of his. Created by artist Christina Motta, with architect Hélio Pellegrino, the statue is a tribute to the iconic musician.
Praça Cazuza (Leblon).
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