The Search for Luxembourg’s Statue of Liberty
The Statue of Liberty is one of the most recognizable landmarks in the world. While the United States is home to the original statue, many other countries have replicas, including France, Japan, and Brazil. One question that often arises is whether Luxembourg has a Statue of Liberty. In this article, we will explore the history of the Statue of Liberty, the relationship between Luxembourg and the United States, and the story behind Luxembourg’s replica of the statue.
The History of the Statue of Liberty
The Statue of Liberty was a gift from the people of France to the United States, to commemorate the centennial of American independence in 1876. The statue was designed by French sculptor Frédéric Auguste Bartholdi, with the help of French engineer Gustave Eiffel. The statue was completed in France in 1884 and shipped to the United States, where it was assembled on its pedestal on Liberty Island in New York Harbor. The statue was officially dedicated on October 28, 1886, and has since become a symbol of American democracy and freedom.
The Relationship Between Luxembourg and the United States
Luxembourg and the United States have a long-standing relationship, dating back to the American Revolution. During the war, Luxembourg was a neutral territory, but many Luxembourgers sympathized with the American cause. After the war, Luxembourg became one of the first countries to recognize the United States as an independent nation. In the 20th century, Luxembourg became an important ally of the United States, particularly during the Cold War. Today, the two countries continue to have a close relationship, with the United States having a significant presence in Luxembourg through NATO and other organizations.
The Origin of Luxembourg’s Interest in the Statue of Liberty
Luxembourg’s interest in the Statue of Liberty can be traced back to the early 20th century. In 1903, a group of Luxembourgers living in the United States raised funds to purchase a replica of the statue for their home country. The replica was shipped to Luxembourg and erected in the city of Ettelbruck, where it still stands today. Since then, Luxembourg has continued to show its admiration for the statue, with replicas being erected in other parts of the country.
The Statue of Liberty Replica at Luxembourg Gardens in Paris
One of the most famous replicas of the Statue of Liberty is located in the Luxembourg Gardens in Paris, France. The replica was gifted to the French government by the American community in Paris in 1889, to commemorate the centennial of the French Revolution. The statue was placed in the Luxembourg Gardens, which had been created by Marie de’ Medici in the early 17th century. Today, the replica is a popular tourist attraction, and is one of many symbols of the close relationship between France and the United States.
The Statue of Liberty Replica at Kirchberg, Luxembourg
In addition to the replica in Ettelbruck, Luxembourg has another replica of the Statue of Liberty, located in the Kirchberg district of Luxembourg City. The replica was donated to Luxembourg by the Luxembourg-American Cultural Society in 1985, to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the original statue’s dedication. The replica stands at 22 meters tall and is located in a park overlooking the city. It has become a popular spot for tourists and locals alike.
The Story Behind Luxembourg’s Replica of the Statue of Liberty
The replica of the Statue of Liberty in Kirchberg was the brainchild of a group of Luxembourg-Americans who wanted to strengthen the ties between Luxembourg and the United States. The replica was financed through donations from both countries, and was constructed by a Luxembourgish company. The statue was unveiled on July 4, 1985, in a ceremony attended by dignitaries from both countries. Since then, the statue has become a beloved symbol of friendship and cooperation between Luxembourg and the United States.
The Similarities and Differences Between Luxembourg’s Replica and the Original
While Luxembourg’s replica of the Statue of Liberty is based on the original design by Bartholdi, there are some differences between the two. The most noticeable difference is the size – the original statue is 93 meters tall, while the replica in Kirchberg is only 22 meters tall. Additionally, the replica is made of a different material – the original statue is made of copper, while the replica is made of steel. Despite these differences, the replica is still a faithful representation of the original, and has become an important symbol for the people of Luxembourg.
The Cultural Significance of the Statue of Liberty for Luxembourg
For Luxembourg, the Statue of Liberty is more than just a replica. It is a symbol of the country’s values of freedom, democracy, and human rights. It also represents the close ties between Luxembourg and the United States, and the lasting friendship between the two countries. The statue has become an important part of the cultural landscape of Luxembourg, and is a source of pride for many Luxembourgers.
The Impact of the Statue of Liberty on Luxembourg’s Tourism Industry
Luxembourg’s replicas of the Statue of Liberty have become popular tourist attractions, drawing visitors from around the world. The replica in Kirchberg, in particular, has become a must-see destination for visitors to Luxembourg City. The statue has helped to boost the country’s tourism industry, and has become an important part of the country’s cultural heritage.
Conclusion: Luxembourg’s Love Affair with the Statue of Liberty
Luxembourg’s replicas of the Statue of Liberty are a testament to the country’s admiration for the United States and its values. The replicas have become beloved symbols of friendship and cooperation between the two countries, and have helped to strengthen the ties between Luxembourg and the United States. While Luxembourg may not have the original statue, its replicas are a source of pride for Luxembourgers, and a reminder of the enduring friendship between two nations.
References and Further Reading
- "Statue of Liberty Replica, Ettelbruck, Luxembourg." Atlas Obscura. https://www.atlasobscura.com/places/statue-liberty-replica-ettelbruck-luxembourg
- "Statue of Liberty Replica Unveiled in Luxembourg." The New York Times. July 5, 1985. https://www.nytimes.com/1985/07/05/world/statue-of-liberty-replica-unveiled-in-luxembourg.html
- "The Statue of Liberty." National Park Service. https://www.nps.gov/stli/index.htm
- "The Statue of Liberty Museum." The Statue of Liberty-Ellis Island Foundation.
- "Why Luxembourg has its own Statue of Liberty." BBC News. June 17, 2019. https://www.bbc.com/news/world-europe-48637665