The Statue of Liberty, an International Symbol of Democracy

 
Located at the entrance into New York harbor, the Statue of Liberty is one of the symbols of democracy and also a gift made by France to the United States, with the occasion of celebrating 100 years since the Declaration of Independence.
 
Having a height of 40 meters and a weight of 225 tons, the statue was built in France by the sculptor Frederic Auguste Bartholdi, with the technical assistance of Alexandre Gustave Eiffel. The statue depicts the Goddess of Liberty, holding her foot over the broken chain of slavery and welcoming Americans returning to the country, as well as visitors and immigrants. The Goddess, covered by a flag, is holding a 14 meter torch in her right hand and the US Declaration of Independence in her left.
 
There are 25 windows on her crown, symbols of natural minerals found in the earth and seven rays, signifying the seven seas and continents on the Globe. The pedestal was inscribed with a poem, written by Emma Lazarus. In 1924, the massive construction was declared a national monument.
 
Photo source: wallorg.com