Statue of Liberty

The Statue of Liberty is one of the most iconic symbols of freedom and democracy in the world. Standing proudly on Liberty Island in New York Harbor, this colossal statue was a gift from France to the United States, commemorating the centennial of American independence in 1886.

Designed by French sculptor Frédéric Auguste Bartholdi and built by Gustave Eiffel, she holds a torch in her right hand and a tablet inscribed with the date of the U.S. Declaration of Independence in her left.

The Statue of Liberty is not just a symbol of freedom; it also represents the hope and opportunity that America has historically offered to millions of immigrants. Visitors can explore the pedestal, the museum, and even climb up to the crown for a breathtaking view of New York City and the harbor.

Height: The Statue of Liberty stands at 305 feet (93 meters) from the ground to the tip of the torch, making it one of the tallest statues in the world.

Material: The statue is made of copper, and over time, it has developed a green patina due to oxidation, which gives it its distinctive color.

Weight: The statue weighs approximately 225 tons, with the copper alone weighing 62,000 pounds (28,000 kilograms).

Construction: The statue was assembled in New York after being shipped from France in 350 individual pieces packed into 214 crates.

Torch: The original torch was replaced in 1986 during the statue's centennial restoration. The current torch is covered in 24-karat gold leaf and is illuminated at night.

Crown: The crown has seven spikes, symbolizing the seven continents and seven seas, representing the universal concept of liberty.

Pedestal: The pedestal was funded entirely by donations from the American public, showcasing the deep national pride and sense of unity the statue inspired.

Visitors: The Statue of Liberty welcomes over 4 million visitors annually, making it one of the most visited landmarks in the United States.

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To fully enjoy your visit to the Statue of Liberty, it’s best to plan ahead. Early mornings are generally the best time to visit, as the crowds are smaller, and you can enjoy the stunning views with less interruption. The first ferry typically departs around 8:30 AM, which is ideal for beating the midday rush.

If you prefer a different experience, consider visiting in the late afternoon. This time offers softer lighting for photography and a more peaceful atmosphere as the day winds down. However, keep in mind that the last ferry leaves Liberty Island around 5:00 PM, depending on the season, so make sure to check the schedule in advance to maximize your time on the island.