It’s an iconic symbol of freedom: the neoclassical goddess of liberty with her arm upraised and a flaming torch in hand. Gifted to America by the French, the Statue of Liberty was delivered in 300 copper pieces that were then assembled on an iron structure designed by Gustave Eiffel (the tower man).
Conceived by French intellectual Édouard René de Laboulaye, it was both commemorative of the French American alliance and a celebration of the values of democracy. The latter is impossible to ignore, from the proud Roman goddess of liberty, to the triumphant torch, the tablet in her hand inscribed with the date of the US Declaration of Independence, and the broken chain at her feet. Entitled ‘Liberty Enlightening the World’ it was a welcome sight to the millions of immigrants that arrived at the Ellis Island checkpoint.
"Lady Liberty" took nine years to be constructed in France before it was shipped to America in 1885. It’s not only worthy of a visit for its historic and structural significance, but also for the breath-taking city and harbour views.
Book your tickets well in advance, especially if you’re hoping to secure the coveted views from the crown (you won’t get any higher as access to the torch has been prohibited since 1916). Keep in mind the 146 steps to the top are not for the faint hearted and don’t forget to include the nearby Ellis Island in your visit.
The Statue of Liberty is open every day of the week from 9:30 AM to 4:30 P.M and can be visited all year round. The only days it is only closed are Thanksgiving and Christmas Day. In order to visit the historical monument, visitors must take the ferry from Battery Park in Lower Manhattan or from Liberty State Park in New Jersey.
