The Empire State Building is one of the most iconic skyscrapers in the world, standing at a remarkable height of 1,454 feet. This remarkable feat of engineering and architecture is located in Midtown Manhattan, New York City, and is the fifth-tallest building in the United States. The Empire State Building has been a symbol of the city’s skyline for almost a century, and it continues to attract millions of tourists every year.
History
The Empire State Building was built in 1931, during the Great Depression. It was designed by William F. Lamb, and the construction was completed in just one year and 45 days. The building was originally intended to be the world’s tallest building, surpassing the Chrysler Building, which had just been completed. However, the Chrysler Building was slightly taller, and the Empire State Building became the second-tallest building in the world.
Features
The Empire State Building is a 102-story Art Deco skyscraper. It is built with an interior steel frame, and is clad in limestone, granite, and aluminum. The building is topped with a 203-foot spire, which gives it its total height of 1,454 feet. The building has 6,500 windows, 73 elevators, and 1,860 stairs. It also has an observation deck on the 86th floor, which provides stunning views of the city.
Facts
- The Empire State Building has been declared a National Historic Landmark.
- It is one of the Seven Wonders of the Modern World.
- It has been featured in numerous films, including King Kong and Sleepless in Seattle.
- The building has its own ZIP code, 10118.
- It is one of the most photographed buildings in the world.
Lighting
The Empire State Building is lit up with colored lights at night. The lights are changed to honor different holidays and events. For example, the building is lit up in red, white, and blue on the Fourth of July. It is also lit up in pink in October to mark Breast Cancer Awareness Month. The building is also lit up in green on St. Patrick’s Day.
Lightning Strikes
The Empire State Building is struck by lightning an average of 23 times per year. The building has its own lightning rod to protect it from damage, and the building’s lights are automatically shut off when a lightning strike is detected. The building is also outfitted with a state-of-the-art fire suppression system, to ensure the safety of its occupants.
Conclusion
The Empire State Building is an iconic symbol of New York City, and its remarkable height of 1,454 feet makes it one of the tallest buildings in the world. Its iconic Art Deco design and lighting make it a popular tourist attraction, and it continues to attract millions of visitors every year.
