Statue of liberty closeup

The Statue of Liberty, a gift from France to the USA in 1886, embodies freedom and democracy at the entrance to New York Harbor.

About this subject

The Statue of Liberty was designed by French sculptor Frédéric Auguste Bartholdi, with internal metal framework by Gustave Eiffel. It was dedicated on October 28, 1886, as a gift of friendship from France to the United States, celebrating the centennial of American independence. The statue depicts Libertas, the Roman goddess of freedom, holding a torch in her right hand and a tablet in her left inscribed with the date July 4, 1776, in Roman numerals.

The statue stands 46 meters tall, but including the pedestal it reaches 93 meters. Her crown features seven spikes symbolizing the seven seas and continents, and at her feet lie broken chains representing liberation from oppression. The original torch was replaced in 1985 with a gold-coated replica, and the flame is lit by electric lights. The characteristic green color is the result of copper oxidation over decades.

Located on Liberty Island, the statue is one of the most visited monuments in the world, attracting about 4 million tourists annually. In 1984, it was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. During the 1986 restoration, structural enhancements were made, and the crown reopened to the public in 2009. The statue also served as a welcoming symbol for millions of immigrants arriving in the US in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

Interestingly, the statue has been the site of numerous protests and demonstrations, reinforcing its role as an icon of freedom. Additionally, smaller replicas exist in Paris, Tokyo, and other cities worldwide, highlighting its global reach and universal significance.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the meaning of the Statue of Liberty?

It symbolizes freedom and democracy, representing liberation from oppression. It was a gift from France to celebrate US independence.

How tall is the Statue of Liberty?

The statue is 46 meters tall, but with the pedestal it reaches 93 meters. The torch is about 93 meters above ground.

Why is the Statue of Liberty green?

Its green color is due to copper oxidation over more than 130 years, forming a patina that protects the metal.