Hollywood sign hill

The Hollywood Sign, one of the most iconic symbols of world cinema, has stood on Mount Lee in Los Angeles, California, since 1923.

About this subject

Originally erected in 1923 as a real estate advertisement, the Hollywood Sign has become one of the most recognized landmarks on the planet. Its story began when businessman Harry Chandler of the Los Angeles Times and developer S. H. Woodruff erected the word 'Hollywoodland' to promote a hillside subdivision. The letters, each 45 feet tall and 30 feet wide, were built with wood, metal, and pipe, and lit by 4,000 light bulbs. Over time, the structure deteriorated, and in 1949 the Hollywood Chamber of Commerce removed the 'land' suffix and restored the sign to its current form.

Mount Lee, where the sign stands, is part of Griffith Park, a vast natural preserve in the heart of Los Angeles. The trail to the summit is popular with hikers and offers panoramic views of the Los Angeles basin. The sign itself is not directly accessible to the public for safety reasons, but several official viewpoints, such as Griffith Observatory and Lake Hollywood Park, provide classic photo opportunities. Over the decades, the sign has undergone multiple renovations, the most recent in 2012, when it was repainted and reinforced with steel.

Culturally, the Hollywood Sign transcends its original advertising purpose. It symbolizes the glamour and dreams of the American film industry. It appears in countless movies, TV shows, and artworks, and has been frequently altered for pranks and protests, most famously in 1976 when it was changed to 'Hollyweed' in support of marijuana legalization. The sign has also been the focus of preservation campaigns, such as one led by singer Alice Cooper and Playboy founder Hugh Hefner, who raised funds for its restoration in the 1970s. Today, it is managed by the Hollywood Sign Trust, a nonprofit dedicated to its upkeep.

For visitors to Los Angeles, seeing the sign up close is a highlight of any trip. Though you cannot touch it, the official viewing points ensure a memorable experience. The contrast of white letters against the California blue sky and wooded hills creates an image that embodies the spirit of Hollywood, a place where imagination and reality intersect.

Frequently Asked Questions

How tall is the Hollywood Sign?

Each letter of the Hollywood Sign is 45 feet tall and 30 feet wide, roughly the height of a four-story building.

Can you visit the Hollywood Sign up close?

Access to the sign itself is restricted for safety, but there are several official viewpoints, such as Griffith Observatory and Lake Hollywood Park, that offer great views.

Was the original sign different from today's?

Yes, the original sign read 'Hollywoodland' and was built as a real estate advertisement. In 1949, the 'land' part was removed during a restoration.