New York City is home to some of the world’s most iconic landmarks. From the Empire State Building to the Statue of Liberty, these architectural marvels are beloved by locals and tourists alike. But there are some lesser-known but fascinating facts about these iconic landmarks. Read on to discover 10 fascinating facts about New York City’s famed architectural wonders.
by David Stone
The Roosevelt Island Daily News
1. The Empire State Building
The Empire State Building is one of the most recognizable skyscrapers in the world, standing at a height of 1,454 feet tall. But did you know that it was built in just one year and 45 days? These days, it would still be finding its way through the bureaucratic jungle.
Construction began on March 17th, 1930 and was completed on May 1st, 1931.
It was also the first building in the world to have more than 100 floors.
2. The Brooklyn Bridge
The Brooklyn Bridge is iconic connecting Manhattan and Brooklyn over the East River.
Imagine being the first person to cross the longest suspension bridge in the whole world. The bridge is made of steel wires with a main span reaching 1,595 feet (486 meters). It was a true engineering masterpiece when opened in 1883.
It took 14 years to build. The first New York City car, the Allen, wasn’t built until two years later.
3. One World Trade Center
One World Trade Center stands as a symbol of resilience after being rebuilt following the 9/11 attacks in 2001. Did you know that it is taller than its predecessor?
The original Twin Towers stood at 1,368 feet while One World Trade Center stands at a height of 1,776 feet – making it the tallest building in America.
4. The Statue of Liberty
The Statue of Liberty has become an iconic symbol of freedom around the world since its dedication. But it wasn’t built or even imagined in America. It was a gift from France.
The statue was designed by French sculptor Frédéric Auguste Bartholdi and gifted to America as a sign of friendship, but it required 21 years of fundraising, shipping across the Atlantic and building it. It opened in 1886.
5. Grand Central Terminal
Grand Central Terminal is one of New York City’s busiest train stations with over 750,000 visitors daily.
But here’s an interesting fact few people know: Although it’s the largest train station in the world, no trains pass through it.
More Fascinating Facts in New York City Architecture
6. Apollo Theater
The Apollo Theater is an iconic theater located on 125th Street in Harlem known for showcasing African American performers such as Ella Fitzgerald and James Brown since 1934 when it opened.
But lost in its history is that it was the first theatre that allowed performances by black people in New York City.
Its impact on cultural development is beyond measure.
7. Times Square
Times Square is one of New York City’s most famous attractions thanks to its bright lights and bustling streets filled with people all day and most of the night. But it was known as Longacre Square until 1904.
It became Times Square only after The New York Times built its headquarters there. Although the newspaper has since relocated farther west on 8th Avenue, the building remains.
It’s still Times Square and where the ball drops on New Year’s Eve.
8. Radio City Music Hall
Radio City Music Hall is another famous attraction located not far from Times Square. It opened its doors for business back in 1932 and welcomes around 700,000 every year for its Christmas Spectacular.
This hall holds several records including “the largest indoor theater audience capacity ever recorded” with 6,200 seats available.
9 . St Patrick’s Cathedral
St Patrick’s Cathedral is one of New York City’s oldest churches, built between 1858-1878. Inside this Gothic Revival-style church are 94 stained-glass windows completed in the 1940s.
Artists include Charles Connick of Boston; Paul Woodroffe of Chipping Camden, Great Britain; Henri Ely of Nantes, France; Nicholas Lorin of Chartres, France; and Charles Morgan of New York.
This makes it one of only two churches worldwide with such intricate detail inside.
10 . Central Park
Central Park is one of New York City’s most beloved attractions thanks to its sprawling 843 acres filled with greenery and winding paths perfect for strolling or biking through nature.
But few realize that before Central Park was built, the area from West 82nd to West 89th Street was home to Seneca Village, the largest community of African-American property owners in New York.
Finally
From towering skyscrapers like One World Trade Center to historic churches like St Patrick’s Cathedral, there are many fascinating facts about New York City’s iconic landmarks waiting to be discovered by curious minds looking for something new and exciting.
So why not take some time out from your busy schedule and explore these amazing architectural marvels up close – who knows what secrets they may hold within their walls?
Sources:
https://www.destguides.com/united-states/new-york/new-york-city/fun-facts-new-york-city – https://www.tripster
