The Iconic Crown of the Statue of Liberty
The Statue of Liberty is one of the most recognizable symbols of freedom and democracy in the world. Towering 305 feet above New York Harbor, the statue was a gift from the people of France to the United States in 1886 to commemorate the centennial of American independence. The statue’s crown, with its distinctive seven-pointed shape, is an iconic feature of the monument.
The Curious Presence of Windows in the Crown
One of the most curious features of the crown is the presence of 25 windows that encircle it. These windows are small, measuring only 18 inches wide and 3 feet tall, and are located at the level of the statue’s eyes. They provide a unique vantage point for visitors who climb to the crown, as they offer sweeping views of the New York City skyline, the harbor, and the surrounding area.
Historical Context: The Construction of the Statue
The Statue of Liberty was designed by French sculptor Frédéric Auguste Bartholdi and built by Gustave Eiffel, who would later design the Eiffel Tower in Paris. The statue was constructed in France and shipped to the United States in crates. It was assembled on a pedestal on what is now Liberty Island in New York Harbor. The pedestal was designed by American architect Richard Morris Hunt.
The French Engineer behind the Crown’s Design
The design of the crown was the work of French engineer and architect Eugène Viollet-le-Duc. Viollet-le-Duc was one of the leading figures of the Gothic Revival movement in France in the 19th century. He was brought on board by Bartholdi to help with the construction of the statue and was responsible for designing the internal structure of the crown.
A Symbol of Enlightenment: The Torch and Crown
The torch held aloft by the statue’s right hand is a symbol of enlightenment, while the seven-pointed crown represents the seven seas and continents of the world. The crown is also said to represent the rays of the sun, a symbol of enlightenment and hope.
The Importance of Natural Lighting in the Crown
The windows in the crown were not included simply for the views they provided. They also serve a practical purpose. The interior of the crown is dark, and the windows allow natural light to penetrate the space. This was important for the safety of the statue’s attendants, who needed to be able to navigate the narrow staircases that lead up to the crown.
The Experience of Climbing to the Crown
Visitors who climb the 354 steps to the crown must make their way up a narrow spiral staircase. The staircase is only 19 inches wide, and visitors must climb it in a single file, taking turns with those who are descending. Climbing to the crown is not for the faint of heart, but those who make it to the top are rewarded with breathtaking views.
The Significance of the Seven-Pointed Crown
The seven-pointed crown has particular significance in the Judeo-Christian tradition, where it is associated with the Seven Gifts of the Holy Spirit. These gifts include wisdom, understanding, counsel, fortitude, knowledge, piety, and fear of the Lord. The crown’s seven points also serve as a reminder of the seven seas and continents of the world.
The Impact of the Statue of Liberty on Immigration
The Statue of Liberty has long been a symbol of hope and opportunity for immigrants coming to the United States. It was often the first thing that immigrants saw as they arrived in New York Harbor, and it welcomed them to a new life in America. Today, the statue remains a powerful symbol of freedom and democracy.
The Crown Today: Restoration and Preservation Efforts
The crown was closed to visitors for many years following the September 11 terrorist attacks in 2001. It was reopened to the public in 2009 after a major restoration effort that included the installation of a new staircase and safety features. Today, visitors can once again climb to the crown and experience its unique views.
Conclusion: The Crown as a Symbol of Freedom and Hope
The presence of windows in the crown of the Statue of Liberty may seem like a curious design choice, but it is one that serves a practical purpose. The windows allow natural light to penetrate the dark interior of the crown, making it safer for those who climb to the top. The crown is not just a functional feature, however. It is also a powerful symbol of freedom and hope, representing the ideals of democracy and opportunity that the United States stands for.
Sources and Further Reading on the Statue of Liberty
- National Park Service. "Statue of Liberty National Monument." https://www.nps.gov/stli/index.htm
- Statue of Liberty-Ellis Island Foundation. "Statue of Liberty History."
- Smithsonian Magazine. "Why Does the Statue of Liberty Have Seven Spikes on Her Crown?" https://www.smithsonianmag.com/smithsonian-institution/why-does-statue-liberty-have-seven-spikes-her-crown-180959680/
