When it comes to iconic landmarks, few are as recognisable as the Statue of Liberty in New York City. This iconic statue has been a symbol of freedom and hope for millions of people since it was unveiled in 1886. If you’re planning a visit to New York City, or just want to learn more about this incredible monument, here are 23 amazing facts about the Statue of Liberty that you might not have known.
The Statue Was a Gift From France
One of the most fascinating facts about the Statue of Liberty is that it was actually a gift from the French people to the United States. The statue was designed by French sculptor Frédéric Auguste Bartholdi and was presented as a gift to the American people in 1886 to celebrate the centennial of the United States.
It Was Inspired by Roman Goddess of Freedom
The Statue of Liberty was inspired by the ancient Roman goddess of freedom, Libertas. Libertas was a symbol of liberty and democracy in ancient Rome, and Bartholdi wanted to create a similar symbol for the United States.
It Was Originally a Copper Colour
When the Statue of Liberty was first unveiled in 1886, it was actually a copper colour. Over time, the statue has oxidised and turned green due to exposure to the elements. The green colour is now a symbol of the statue’s age and durability.
It Was Built in France and Shipped to New York
The Statue of Liberty was actually built in France and shipped to New York in pieces. The statue was constructed in France, disassembled, and then shipped to the United States in more than 200 separate pieces.
It Was the Tallest Structure in New York When It Was Built
When the Statue of Liberty was first built, it was the tallest structure in New York City. The statue stands at an impressive 305 feet tall, including the pedestal.
The Crown Contains 25 Windows
If you’re lucky enough to climb to the top of the Statue of Liberty, you’ll be treated to an incredible view of New York City through the 25 windows in the crown. The crown is accessed by climbing 354 steps from the base of the statue.
The Torch Was Restored in 1986
In 1986, the torch of the Statue of Liberty was restored and replaced. The original torch had deteriorated over time and was replaced with a new one made of copper and covered in gold leaf.
The Pedestal Was Funded by Americans
While the statue itself was a gift from France, the pedestal on which it stands was funded by Americans. The pedestal was constructed by a group of private citizens in the United States and was completed in 1886.
It Was a Lighthouse for Almost 20 Years
In addition to being a symbol of freedom and democracy, the Statue of Liberty also served as a lighthouse for almost 20 years. A light was installed in the torch of the statue in 1916, and it was used to guide ships into New York Harbour until 1924.
It Was Closed for Renovations After 9/11
After the terrorist attacks on September 11, 2001, the Statue of Liberty was closed to visitors for renovations and repairs. It was reopened to the public in 2009, but visitors are no longer allowed to climb to the top of the crown.
It Was the First Thing Many Immigrants Saw When They Arrived in the US
For millions of immigrants who arrived in the United States between 1892 and 1954
It Was the First Thing Many Immigrants Saw When They Arrived in the US
For millions of immigrants who arrived in the United States between 1892 and 1954, the Statue of Liberty was the first thing they saw upon entering New York Harbour. The statue was a symbol of freedom and opportunity, and it represented the hope that many immigrants had for a better life in America.
It’s Been Featured in Many Movies and TV Shows
The Statue of Liberty has been featured in countless movies and TV shows over the years. From “Ghostbusters II” to “National Treasure: Book of Secrets,” the statue has played a role in many popular films.
It Was Almost a Different Colour
When the Statue of Liberty was first proposed, it was almost a different colour. Originally, Bartholdi wanted the statue to be painted in bright colours, including red and gold. However, he eventually decided that a copper colour would be more fitting for the monument.
It’s One of the Most Photographed Landmarks in the World
The Statue of Liberty is one of the most photographed landmarks in the world. Every year, millions of tourists visit the statue and take photos of this iconic monument.
The Statue Has a Twin Sister in France
Believe it or not, the Statue of Liberty has a twin sister in France. The statue, known as the “little sister,” is located on the Seine River in Paris and was also designed by Bartholdi.
The Statue Has Been Struck by Lightning
Over the years, the Statue of Liberty has been struck by lightning several times. However, the statue’s copper exterior has protected it from any serious damage.
The Pedestal Was Almost Built in Philadelphia
While the pedestal for the Statue of Liberty was ultimately built in New York City, there was a plan to build it in Philadelphia instead. However, New York City won out in the end, and the statue was built in its current location.
The Statue Has Inspired Many Artists
The Statue of Liberty has inspired many artists over the years. From paintings to sculptures, the statue has been the subject of countless works of art.
The Torch Has Been Closed to Visitors Since 1916
While visitors used to be able to climb to the top of the torch, it has been closed to visitors since 1916. This is because the narrow staircase leading to the top of the torch was deemed too dangerous for visitors.
The Statue Has a Special Relationship with France
The Statue of Liberty has a special relationship with France, the country that gifted it to the United States. To this day, the statue remains a symbol of the friendship between the two countries.
The Statue Was Once a Target for Sabotage
During World War I, the Statue of Liberty was a target for sabotage. German spies were suspected of plotting to blow up the statue, and it was heavily guarded to prevent any attempts at sabotage.
The Statue Was the Tallest Iron Structure in the World
When the Statue of Liberty was built, it was the tallest iron structure in the world. It remained the tallest iron structure until the completion of the Eiffel Tower in Paris.
In conclusion, the Statue of Liberty is an incredible monument with a rich history and countless fascinating facts. Whether you’re planning a trip to New York City via Camp New York or just want to learn more about this iconic statue, there’s no denying the significance of the Statue of Liberty in American culture and history.
FAQs
- Is the Statue of Liberty still open to visitors? Yes, the Statue of Liberty is still open to visitors. However, visitors are no longer able to climb to the top of the torch due to safety concerns.
- Why is the Statue of Liberty green? The Statue of Liberty is green because it is made of copper, which over time develops a green patina due to exposure to the elements.
- How tall is the Statue of Liberty? The statue is 151 feet tall from the base to the torch, and 305 feet tall including the pedestal.
- What is the significance of the seven spikes on the Statue of Liberty’s crown? The seven spikes on the crown of the statue represent the seven seas and seven continents of the world.
- Can you still take a boat tour around the Statue of Liberty? Yes, boat tours around the Statue of Liberty are still available for tourists to enjoy and admire the monument from the water.
