The Wonders of the Statue of Liberty

Few skylines are as iconic as that of New York City - Manhattan. Abuzz with skyscrapers and modern achievements in construction and design, it stands alone on the East Coast of North America as an exemplar of man's achievements in commercial and residential living.

Notable buildings, such as the Empire State and Chrysler, define the city as one of commercial success, and are easily recognisable the world over. Having spent time as some of the tallest in the world, these buildings have become statues that embody America's freedom - testimonies to the liberal American Dream.

One key statue that literally exemplifies this aesthetic is the Statue of Liberty, situated on Liberty Island, in New York Harbour. The statue was gifted to the States by the people of France in 1886 and has undergone little dramatic change since its founding.

The Statue was presented as a gift to commemorate the centennial of the Declaration of Independence, and as a symbol of the friendship forged between the two countries during the American Revolution. The project further cemented relations, with an agreement that saw France responsible for building, delivering and reconstructing the Statue, with the Americans responsible for providing the plinth on which she stands today.

In her arms, Lady Liberty carries a symbolic torch and tablet, inscribed on which is the date 4 July 1776 in roman numerals - the date on which the Declaration of Independence was adopted.

The Statue stands at 93 metres, 46 of which is accounted for by the iconic copper-clad Lady Liberty herself; the base - a rectangular pedestal and eleven-pointed stone star - make up the remaining impressive metres in height. Over 30 tonnes of copper was used in the making of the Statue, which in total weighs 204 tonnes from pedestal to torch. During its transport to New York, the Statue was carried as 350 component parts, in 214 shipping crates, and then reassembled in no mean feat on Liberty Island.

In a classic style, the statue creates an enduring image that encapsulates the hopes and dreams of Americans based upon the country's founding principles.

Under the toga, the Statue hides 354 steps that once took visitors up to the seven-pronged crown; however, she is now closed for internal visits, a decision ratified in 2006. She continues to welcome up to 15,000 visitors a day, who travel by ferry from Battery State Park across to Liberty Island, and who can travel onwards to another iconic sight in New York - Ellis Island.

If you choose the right location then you may be able to view this world famous icon from one of the many New York hotels. Indeed, a trip to New York would not be complete without viewing The Statue of Liberty.

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Lady Liberty