The restoration work of the Christ the Redeemer statue, financed by Pirelli, has begun.

Last month the statue, one of the key symbols of Rio, was struck by a number of lightning bolts causing some damage, in particular to a finger on the right hand. The restoration work is expected to last three to four months.

Paolo Dal Pino, president of Pirelli South America immediately responded to the cause after meeting with the Archbishop of Rio de Janeiro. Pirelli is investing $1 million to the cause each year for the next three years.

“In 2014, Pirelli is celebrating 85 years in Brazil. Restoring Christ the Redeemer is the best thing we can do to thank this country and celebrate this anniversary,” said Paolo Dal Pino, president of Pirelli South America.