Famous Buildings of New York
It is hard to walk anywhere in Manhattan without encountering one of the famous buildings of New York. The media and entertainment industry have transformed some of these architectural gems into icons which will be forever embedded in the history of the city that never sleeps, and which have ensured that even buildings destroyed through terrorism will never be forgotten.
Although the Twin Towers of the World Trade Center, which until September 11 2001 dominated the New York City skyline, are no longer standing, there are many other buildings which are a tribute to the architects who designed them. One of the most famous of those remaining is the Empire State Building situated on 5th Avenue. Taking the elevator up 1454 ft to the observation deck, tourists are rewarded with a breathtaking view of New York City - the night-time view is even more spectacular than the daytime one! Immortalized in such movies as King Kong and Sleepless in Seattle, the Empire State building is not the highest nor the more original of New York's skyscrapers, however the importance it plays in the history of New York is shown in the amount of marketing material which use its image to promote tourism to the city.
For uniqueness and a taste of gothic blended with a futuristic overtone, no building in the world can touch the Chrysler Building situated on 42nd and Lexington. William Van Allen's vision wasn't satisfied with using an Art Deco theme, but also incorporated an automobile element with the spire which was designed after a radiator grille.
Although the individual buildings of Time Square may not inspire on an individual scale, collectively the huge billboards which adorn their walls at the corner of 42nd and Broadway are a symbol of New York City identifiable through most of the world.
Another famous New York building worthy of special note is St Patrick's Cathedral. Standing between 51st and 52nd, this is largest Catholic Cathedral in the United States and with its 330 ft high spires, is an inspiring sight.
New York City boasts some amazing contrasting architecture, where low level buildings fight for space with immense skyscrapers. The planning of the city is best admired from above, such as from the Empire State Building observation deck. The famous buildings of New York are numerous for either their external (as well as internal) look - such as the Woolworth Building, or the personality and lavishness of their interior furnishings such as the Trump Tower. New York is a city of unforgettable buildings which are as much a part of the tourist trail as the shows on Broadway or a trip to Central Park.
Related Links: Visiting New York, New York Airports
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