One of the most universal symbols of political freedom and democracy in the world travel tips and stories. Vacations ideas, cruises spa and resorts

Located in New York, at 46 meters tall , the Statue of Liberty symbolizes freedom throughout the world. Construction of the Statue began in France in the year 1875, by sculptor Auguste Bartholdi. The final completion date of the individual sections was in June of 1884. The Statue of Liberty National Monument officially celebrated her 100th birthday on October 28, 1986. An inspiring symbol of America, given as a gift from France in honor of the first centennial of the United States.

Nearly a century after her dedication, Lady Liberty began to deteriorate. In the early 1980’s, President Ronald Reagan created the Statue of Liberty - Ellis Island Commission to restore the statue to her original beauty. More than $230 million was needed to restore the statute. The statue was closed for two years and reopened on July 4, 1986 with a centennial celebration. In 1984, the United Nations designated the Statue of Liberty as a World Heritage Site. More than 5 million people visit the statue each year.

Between 1892 and 1924, more than 22 million passengers saw the Statue of Liberty as they passed through Ellis Island and the Port of New York. This landmark of freedom became a National Monument in 1924 and a major tourist attraction in the 20th Century.

The statue, made of copper sheets with an iron framework, depicts a woman escaping the chains of tyranny, which lie at her feet. Her right hand holds aloft a burning torch that represents liberty. Her left hand holds a tablet inscribed with the date “July 4, 1776″ , the day the United States declared its independence from England. She is wearing flowing robes and the seven rays of her spiked crown symbolize the seven seas and continents. There are 25 windows in the crown which symbolize gemstones found on the earth and the heaven’s rays shining over the world. The seven rays of the Statue’s crown represent the seven seas and continents of the world. The total weight of copper in the Statue is 31 tons and the total weight of steel in the Statue is 125 tons. Total weight of the Statue’s concrete foundation is 27,000 tons. Wind sway: winds of 50 miles per hour cause the Statue to sway 7.62cm and the torch sways 12.70cm.

This American Park Network guide to the Statue of Liberty is provided to enhance your appreciation and enjoyment of the monument. Standing at the entrance to New York Harbour, it has welcomed millions of immigrants to the United States ever since.