The Other Spot

Recorded at its base is the Emma Lazarus poem that reflects the ideal of this colossal statue: democracy, solidarity and freedom. Lady Liberty, as is known, is the symbol of belief in a new world, an equal partnership, with equal opportunities for all, and so she, with her torch, illuminating the hearts, welcoming whom end nineteenth and early twentieth centuries, risked his future for these qualities, leaving their homeland in search of such opportunities and that freedom. Italian, Spanish, Mexican … barreled New York Bay, and the first glimpse of these new hopes of giving the statue of Liberty. In fact, Ellis Island, off Liberty Island, were recorded nearly 12 million migrants.

Designed by sculptor Frederic Auguste Bartholdi, was inaugurated by President Cleveland on October 28, 1886, after the French government gave it to New York City to commemorate the centennial of U.S. independence in 1786.

Located on Liberty Island (formerly Bedloe Island), the statue measures 46 meters even if the actual height from floor is 93 meters since it is on a huge pedestal formed by a reinforced concrete structure. From the entrance is 354 steps that lead up to the Crown, which is the highest open to visitors. According to plans of Gustave Eiffel, creator of the Tower of Paris, the interior structure is made of iron coated with copper, and anchor the statue a huge center pole, as the weight of the statue is 225 tons.

Unfortunately, we can always visit because closed seasonally. But the views from the viewpoint in the Crown has, are spectacular. The most famous pictures of Manhattan, with the famous skyline, are obtained from there or from the ferry which came to the island. The crown has seven points representing the 7 continents, and face, he served as a model of the sculptor’s own mother.

Given the poor state it was in the original torch, the statue was restored for its centennial. Thus, on 3 July 1986, was held a great feast in the end it was discovered that the new image of Lady Liberty. The original torch is currently hung in the lobby of the Statue. Almost $ 70 million was invested in its restoration.

To reach it, it’s best to catch a ferry that leaves from Battery Park in downtown Manhattan, or from Liberty State Park in New Jersey. The price is about $ 12 for adults and depart every 30 minutes every day from 9.00 to 17.00 h. except December 25. However, given the large influx of tourists waiting queues are long, so it is wise to first thing in the morning.