Statue of liberty closeup

The Statue of Liberty, a gift from France to the US, is a global icon of freedom and democracy. Close-up details of its crown and torch reveal its grandeur.

About this subject

The Statue of Liberty, officially titled 'Liberty Enlightening the World', was a gift from the people of France to the United States in 1886, commemorating the centennial of the American Declaration of Independence. Designed by sculptor Frédéric Auguste Bartholdi with internal structure by Gustave Eiffel (of Eiffel Tower fame), the statue is made of copper and stands about 93 meters tall including the pedestal. It is located on Liberty Island in New York Harbor and was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1984.

The statue depicts a female figure dressed in a robe, holding a torch in her right hand and a tablet in her left, inscribed with the date of American independence (July 4, 1776) in Roman numerals. Her feet break chains, symbolizing liberation from oppression. The crown features seven spikes, representing the seven continents and seven seas, reinforcing the idea of universal liberty.

Interestingly, the copper of the statue underwent a natural oxidation process that gave it the iconic green color known as patina. This layer actually protects the underlying metal. The original torch was replaced in 1986 with a new gilded one, and the flame is illuminated by floodlights. The statue was closed to visitors after the September 11 attacks, but the crown reopened in 2009 with limited capacity.

The Statue of Liberty is one of the most photographed symbols in the United States, attracting millions of visitors annually. Its image is frequently used in films, advertising, and as a representation of American ideals. The statue was also one of the first sights seen by immigrants arriving at Ellis Island, becoming an emotional landmark for millions of people.

Frequently Asked Questions

How tall is the Statue of Liberty?

The Statue of Liberty is about 93 meters tall including the pedestal. The statue itself is 46 meters.

Why is the Statue of Liberty green?

The green color results from the natural oxidation of copper over time, forming a protective layer of patina.

What is written on the tablet the statue holds?

The tablet bears the date of American independence: July 4, 1776, in Roman numerals (JULY IV MDCCLXXVI).