Empire State Building

Construction of the Empire State Building commenced in March of 1930 at Fifth Avenue and 34th Street and was completed in May of 1931, a mere fourteen months later. Until the completion of the first tower of the World Trade Center in 1972, the Empire State Building, rich in Art Deco detailing, was the tallest edifice in New York City. We visited the Observation Deck on the 102nd floor. Tragically, as a result of the horrific atrocities of September 11th, 2001, the Empire State Building is once again Manhattan's tallest skyscraper.

The World Trade Center

It is incomprehensible that this monumental office complex, a symbol of America's economic wealth and power, no longer exists. However, I wanted this photograph on my website if only to remind all of us what has been irrevocably lost because of the terrorist attacks. We must always remember that for nearly thirty years, these buildings played a very essential and important part in defining the distinctive skyline of lower Manhattan. The heart and soul of this immense city has now disappeared forever.

The tragedy of September 11th showed the world the true mettle and grit displayed by the people of New York as they rallied together to cope with the overwhelming destruction of the key landmark and icon of their city. Sadly, the World Trade Center is now the final resting place for over fifteen hundred people who were killed in the hideous events of that sunny autumn morning in America's largest metropolis.

Another view from the Observation Deck, WTC, this vista shows a portion of the financial district of lower Manhattan. Wall Street is not far from here.

Ann on the Observation Deck, 110th Floor, World Trade Center.