Statue of liberty closeup

The Statue of Liberty, a gift from France to the USA, is a global symbol of freedom and democracy, located on Liberty Island in New York.

About this subject

The Statue of Liberty was designed by French sculptor Frédéric Auguste Bartholdi and engineered by Gustave Eiffel, the same creator of the Eiffel Tower. Inaugurated on October 28, 1886, it was a gift from the people of France to the people of the United States, commemorating the centennial of the American Declaration of Independence and symbolizing the friendship between the two nations. The statue depicts Libertas, the Roman goddess of liberty, holding a torch in her right hand and a tablet in her left, inscribed with the date of American independence: July 4, 1776.

The structure stands 46 meters tall, but with the pedestal it reaches 93 meters. It is made of copper, which over time oxidized and acquired its characteristic green color due to natural patina. The right arm and torch were open to the public until 1916, when a German sabotage attack damaged parts of the structure. Currently, visitors can climb to the crown, which offers panoramic views of New York Harbor, but access to the torch remains closed.

The statue was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1984 and underwent a major restoration in the 1980s, which included replacing the original torch with a gold-plated replica. More than 4 million people visit the monument annually, making it one of the most iconic tourist attractions in the United States. Its design has inspired replicas worldwide, including a famous one in Paris on the Île aux Cygnes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the total height of the Statue of Liberty?

The statue itself is 46 meters tall, but including the pedestal and base, the total height is 93 meters.

What is written on the tablet the statue holds?

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

Can you visit inside the statue?

Yes, visitors can access the pedestal and the crown, but the torch has been closed to the public since 1916.