There is a common misconception that the replica of the famous monument in New York is the only one, however, in fact, the second Statue of Liberty was officially donated to the city of Paris and installed on Swan Island in 1889. This smaller version was the first response to the American masterpiece created by the same masters, and it is historically considered the second oldest official replica. Many tourists mistakenly believe that the “second” refers to the copy in Las Vegas or McIntosh Island, but the chronology and status of the gifts point specifically to the French capital as the owner of this title.
Question about the exact location of alternative versions Freedom Monument often arises from the sheer number of existing replicas across the globe. If you plan to visit one of them, you need to clearly understand the difference between the original, smaller gift versions and commercial copies. In this article, we will analyze the specific addresses, history of appearance and technical features of the most significant structures so that you can plan your route without mistakes.
Historical context of the appearance of copies
The appearance of replicas Statue of Liberty directly related to Franco-American friendship and the desire to spread the symbolism of freedom beyond New York Harbor. Frederic Auguste Bartholdi, the author of the original, personally oversaw the creation of several smaller versions that were to become symbols of republican ideals in different parts of the world. It is important to understand that not all statues you see today are exact replicas; some are artistic interpretations or smaller souvenir versions.
The first copies were created during the sculptor’s lifetime and often served as models for foundries or gifts for high-ranking officials. The official "second" statue is considered a Parisian example, as it was created in the same foundry and from the same materials as the New York giant, just on a smaller scale. Other versions that appeared later were often made of concrete, plaster or less durable alloys, which affected their preservation and status.
⚠️ Warning: Do not confuse official historical copies with modern decorative statues in amusement parks or private collections that are not related to Bartholdi's original design.
Paris copy: first and main
Located on Île aux Cygnes (Swan Island) in Paris, this statue is the most famous and significant copy of the original. It was installed in 1889, a gift from the American public to the French people in return for the generosity of France. The statue faces west, towards its “big brother” across the ocean, symbolizing the inextricable connection between the two peoples.
The height of the Paris version is 11.5 meters, which is significantly less than the New York original, but the proportions are maintained with high precision. Pedestal This statue is decorated with inscriptions and bas-reliefs telling the story of the creation of the monument. The island is free for tourists to access and is considered a must-see for those interested in history. Liberty.
Technical details of the Parisian statue
The Paris copy is made of copper using the electroforming method, like the original. It weighs significantly less - about 4 tons versus 225 tons in New York. The internal frame is also designed to withstand the wind loads typical of the Seine Valley.
Other, smaller versions can be found around Paris and in the city itself, for example in the Luxembourg Gardens or in the Orsay Museum, where Bartholdi's original plaster model is kept. However, it is the statue on Swan Island that bears the status of a full-fledged monument.
- 🗽 Address: Pont de Grenelle, 75015 Paris, France
- 🗽 Year of installation: 1889
- 🗽 Height: 11.5 meters (without pedestal)
- 🗽 Material: Copper, iron
Copies within the United States
In the homeland of the original, in the USA, there are dozens of replicas of different sizes and quality. One of the most famous is the statue in Mackintoshe (Wisconsin), which is often mentioned in travel brochures. It was installed in the 1950s and served as a symbol of freedom for the local community, drawing attention to issues of immigration and civil rights.
Another significant copy is in Las Vegas, in front of the New York-New York Casino Hotel. Although this version is modern and made for entertainment purposes, its scale and detail are amazing. It serves as a prominent landmark on the Strip and is often used in advertising campaigns, creating the illusion of being in New York City in the middle of the Nevada desert.
In Philadelphia, on the grounds of the Philadelphia Museum of Art, there is also a remarkable version, donated by the Boy Scouts in 1926. It is smaller in size, but historically valuable as a symbol of the youth movement and patriotism of the early 20th century. Each of these statues has its own unique history of installation and existence in American culture.
Statue of Liberty in Russia and other countries
Few people know that a copy of the famous statue also exists in Russia, or rather, in the Soviet Union it appeared as a symbol of friendship between peoples. B Moscow At different times one could find various installations, but there is no permanent monumental copy in the center of the capital. However, art objects that play on the theme of the Statue of Liberty periodically appear in Muzeon Park or at contemporary art exhibitions.
In Europe, outside of France, copies are less common, but they do exist. For example, in Colmar (France), in Bartholdi’s homeland, there is a monument to the sculptor, next to which thematic elements are often located. In Asia, particularly China and Japan, replicas can be found in theme parks, although their historical value is questionable.
If you are looking for a specific statue for a photo shoot, your best bet is Paris or Las Vegas as they provide better access and lighting for photos.
It is important to note that some Latin American countries also have their own versions, donated by French emigrants. They are often smaller in size and made of simpler materials, but carry the same meaning.
Master Copy Comparison Chart
For the convenience of planning a trip or researching a topic, below is a table comparing the key parameters of the most famous copies Statue of Liberty. The data is based on open sources and official reports from monument caretakers.
| Location | Country | Year of installation | Height (m) | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Swan Island | France | 1889 | 11.5 | Historical copy |
| Las Vegas | USA | 1997 | 46.0 | Replica (hotel) |
| McIntosh Island | USA | 1950s | 15.0 | Monument |
| Disneyland (Paris) | France | 1992 | 9.0 | Attraction |
| Tokyo (Odaiba) | Japan | 1998 | 12.0 | Temporary (became permanent) |
This table shows the variation in the sizes and purposes of creation of objects. While the original in New York was created as a beacon and symbol, many copies have a utilitarian or entertainment purpose.
Technical features and materials
Making a copy Lady Liberty is a complex engineering process that requires precise calculations. The original is made of copper sheets only 2.4 mm thick, mounted on a steel frame designed by Gustav Eiffel. Replicas often simplify this design, using thicker metal or even copper-clad concrete to reduce costs.
⚠️ Warning: When visiting older replicas (eg early 20th century), be careful as copper oxidizes over time and may become brittle and internal structures susceptible to corrosion.
Modern replicas, such as those in Las Vegas or Tokyo, often use fiberglass and composite materials painted to resemble copper. This can significantly reduce the weight of the structure and simplify maintenance, but visually distinguishing them from the original upon close examination is quite easy. The surface of the original has a characteristic patina, which is difficult to recreate artificially.
☑️ What to check before going to the statue
Cultural significance and tourism
Visiting copies of the Statue of Liberty has become a separate type of tourism, allowing people who are unable to visit the United States to touch the symbol of Western civilization. In Paris, it is a place of pilgrimage for lovers and history buffs, and in Las Vegas, it is a must-see on the entertainment program. Each location brings its own flavor to the perception of the image.
The tourism infrastructure around these sites is developed differently. If there are quiet parks and embankments around the Parisian statue, then around the American copies there is often a bustling commercial life with souvenir shops and cafes. Economic effect The presence of such facilities in cities cannot be overstated, as they attract millions of visitors every year.
Key Takeaway: The second Statue of Liberty is located in Paris, but there are more than 200 replicas scattered around the world, each with its own unique history and value.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
Where exactly is the second Statue of Liberty located?
The second official Statue of Liberty is located in Paris, France, on Swan Island (Île aux Cygnes) in the River Seine. It was installed in 1889.
Is it possible to go inside the replica in Las Vegas?
Yes, there is an elevator and an observation deck inside the statue in Las Vegas, but access there is usually paid and requires the purchase of a ticket at the casino hotel or a separate tour.
How many copies of the Statue of Liberty are there in the world?
The exact number is unknown, but according to various estimates, there are more than 200 copies and replicas of various sizes in the world, from miniature souvenirs to large monuments.
Why does the Parisian statue look the other way?
The Paris copy faces west, towards America, symbolizing the welcome and connection between France and the United States, in contrast to the New York one, which faces the entrance to the harbor.
What are modern copies made of?
Modern replicas are often made from concrete, fiberglass or composite materials coated with paint or a thin layer of copper, as opposed to the original being made of pure copper.