Empire State Building - 10 fascinating facts about the New York City icon

Empire State Building is not just a skyscraper - it is an architectural legend, a symbol of New York and one of the most recognizable buildings in the world. Since its opening in 1931, it has attracted tourists, filmmakers and engineering enthusiasts from around the globe. It rises proudly above Manhattan, reminding us of the era in which it was built - a time of the Great Depression, but also an unquenchable faith in the future.

In this listing you will find 10 fascinating facts, which show why the Empire State Building continues to inspire awe - both as an engineering marvel and a cultural symbol of the era.

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1️⃣ Empire State Building - brief history and purpose of construction

Empire State Building is one of the most recognizable skyscrapers in the world and an undisputed symbol of New York City. It was built in the years The Great Depression as proof of the strength, ambition and modernity of the United States.

💠 When and why was it built?
Construction has begun March 17, 1930, and already completed May 1, 1931 - at a record pace 410 days. The skyscraper was built as a response to altitude race between the New York giants: Chrysler Building i 40 Wall Street. The commissioner was a magnate John J. Raskob, and the project was prepared by the studio Shreve, Lamb & Harmon. Empire State was not only to surpass the competition, but to become a an icon of modern America.

💠 Utility and prestige function
The skyscraper was to serve as a office building - offered thousands of square meters of modern commercial space. At the same time, it was a show technical capabilities i architectural of his time. In the media, he was often called "the eighth wonder of the world" - was the world's tallest building Until 1971.

💠 Significance for New York
The Empire State Building has become a an icon of the city Almost immediately after opening. He was proof the strength of the American economy despite the crisis - and a symbol of hope for a better future. To this day, it remains one of the most visited attractions in New York City and a landmark visible from many of the city's neighborhoods.

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2️⃣ Impressive size and architecture of high-rise building

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Empire State Building impresses not only with its height, but also with its well-thought-out design, which still arouses the admiration of architects and engineers today. At the time of its completion it was the world's tallest building, and its architecture in the style of art déco has become a model for subsequent generations of artists.

💠 Heights and figures that impress
The building measures 381 meters high, and with the spire - 443 meters.
Ma 102 floors, most of which is office space.
More than 60,000 tons of steel i 10 million bricks, and the facade is covered with Indiana limestones.
Its construction also consumed approx. 730 tons of aluminum and stainless steel, mainly for interior finishing.

💠 Architectural style - art déco
Empire State is an iconic example art déco style - with its distinctive tapering shape, geometric embellishments and elegant details.
The interiors are stunning with marble, aluminum and chrome finishes.
The main hall is decorated with a striking bas-relief with building profile, made of metal and amber glass.

💠 Technical innovation and functionality
The steel-framed design allowed for such great height and stability.
The building has 73 elevators, which carry thousands of workers and tourists every day.
As early as the 1930s, the modern ventilation and heating system, for those days - a real innovation.

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3️⃣ Where did the name "Empire State" come from?

Name Empire State Building is not accidental - it refers to nickname of the state of New York, which since the 19th century has been referred to as the Empire State, i.e. "state of the empire".

💠 The origins of the nickname "Empire State"
The origin of the term is not entirely clear, but it is believed that the term "Empire State" was popularized thanks to George Washington, which was to call New York "the foundation of an empire."
Over time, the term came to symbolize economic, political and cultural potential state - the largest and most important in the United States at the time.

💠 Empire State as the pride of New York
When the skyscraper was built, giving it this name had a dimension ambitious and symbolic - was supposed to be A representation of the power of the entire state of New York, and its brightest spot on the map.
It was also a form of advertising and prestige building - The name was meant to attract attention, inspire pride and be associated with something special.

💠 The meaning of the name until today
Today, the Empire State Building is not only building name, but hallmark of the entire city and state. The facility epitomizes the american dream, technological courage and architectural elegance.
It has become so popular that it is often referred to simply as the "Empire State" - without the need to add the word "Building".

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4️⃣ Opening of the building - a symbol of the times of the Great Depression

Although Empire State Building is today a symbol of New York's success and power, its origins came during one of the most difficult periods in U.S. history. The Great Depression 1930s. The grand opening of the skyscraper was held May 1, 1931 and had great social, economic and psychological significance.

💠 Opening in the shadow of the crisis
The opening ceremony was official, but lacked a lavish fete - the economic situation was not conducive to celebration.
The symbolic cutting of the ribbon was done by the president of the Herbert Hoover, who activated the building's lighting remotely - from Washington.
Despite the recession, the building was completed ahead of schedule and below budget, which was considered a huge organizational success.

💠 Empty Colossus - "Empty State Building".
Due to the difficult economic situation, many floors stood empty for years. Because of this, New Yorkers ironically called it a "Empty State Building"..
In its early years, the skyscraper was loss-making, and full tenant occupancy was not achieved until the 1950s.

💠 Hope and national pride
Despite the harsh realities, the Empire State Building quickly gained status a symbol of survival and hope.
He was proof that even in times of crisis it is possible to Bold visions, grand designs and technical progress.
Its opening showed that New York - and the United States as a whole - is not about to give up.

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5️⃣ Skyscraper in the cinema - from King Kong to Spider-Man

Empire State Building is not only an architectural masterpiece, but also a one of pop culture's greatest icons. It has appeared in films, TV series, games and literature for decades, becoming the backdrop for spectacular scenes and exciting stories.

💠 King Kong - the birth of a legend
The first and most famous film to immortalize the Empire State Building was the classic "King Kong" from 1933.
It was at the top of this skyscraper that the legendary gorilla fought his last battle before falling to the streets of New York.
The scene went down in cinema history and made the building a symbol of dramatic finales and epic scale.

💠 New York City from a bird's eye view
With its height and distinctive appearance, the Empire State often appears as a skyline In dozens of productions.
He has starred in such films as: Insomnia in Seattle, Independence Day, New York in love, Elf, Spider-Man, Armageddon, Percy Jackson, Strangers in New York and many others.
It is often used for special effects - explosions, alien attacks, superhero fights or flights over the city.

💠 Not just a movie icon
Empire State also appears in series (Friends, Gossip Girl, How I Met Your Mother), computer games (Grand Theft Auto IV, Spider-Man), and even cartoons (The Simpsons, Futurama).
It has become the universal symbol of New York, recognized by people all over the world - regardless of language and culture.

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6️⃣ Illuminations - colors with a message

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One of the most distinctive elements of the Empire State Building are its night illuminations, which light up the New York sky in different colors. It is not only decoration -. lights matter and often carry an important message.

💠 The origins of illumination
The first colored lighting appeared in the 1930s, but the real breakthrough came in the 1960s and 1970s., when it was introduced dynamic light patterns.
In 2012, the building underwent modernization - a modern LED system was installed to display the more than 16 million colors and animations and lighting effects.

💠 Lights that talk
The colors of the illuminations are chosen for specific events, anniversaries, national holidays, social actions or sports successes.
For example:
🔵 blue - in honor of Autism Awareness Day,
🌈 rainbow - during Pride Month,
⚪🔴 white and red - to commemorate Poland,
💚 green - for St. Patrick's Day,
🎄 red and green - during the Christmas season.
Often the colors are chosen in consultation with foundations and community organizations.

💠 Modern technology and synchronization
The illuminations are computer-controlled, and the entire system allows synchronization with, for example, radio music (as in New Year's Eve shows).
A skyscraper can also change colors in real time, making it a unique display of emotions and events - almost like the heart of a city beating with light.

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7️⃣ Viewpoint - a view of all of NYC

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One of the biggest attractions Empire State Building are its observation decks, which overlook New York's unforgettable skyline. It is a must-see on any visit to this city - both for tourists and New Yorkers themselves.

💠 Two viewing levels
The main terrace is located on the 86th floor - at approximately 320 meters. It is a classic outdoor vantage point from which you can view Manhattan, Brooklyn, the Hudson River, Central Park, and in good weather - even The state of New Jersey and parts of Connecticut.
At 102nd floor There is an additional terrace, glazed, which still offers a view of the big picture - For those who want to rise even higher (literally and figuratively).

💠 Popularity and numbers
The terraces have already been visited by more than 110 million people - is one of most photographed places in the world.
The building is open every day - usually from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m. - and the view at night, with millions of city lights, is unforgettably impressive.
The following are available on site audio guides, interactive exhibits and multimedia displays about the history of New York.

💠 A stage for movies, engagements and memories
The terrace on the 86th floor has appeared in many films, such as. Insomnia in Seattle, New York in love whether Angel in New York.
It is also the site of thousands of romantic engagements, commemorative photos, and for some - the fulfillment of a childhood dream.

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8️⃣ Lightning and accidents - facts that surprise

Empire State Building is not only a symbol of the city, but also a building that over the decades has become a witness to - and participant in - the surprising events, including lightning strikes and tragic accidents. Despite this, the building remains one of the of the world's safest skyscrapers.

💠 Lightning strikes - an almost daily occurrence
Because of its height, the Empire State Building attracts lightning an average of 20-25 times a year.
Installed lightning protection systems effectively protect the structure - the first recorded lightning struck the building.... The same day it was opened: May 1, 1931!
Photos often show lightning striking the spire - it's almost legendary shots new york storms.

💠 Air crash in 1945
July 28, 1945, during a dense fog, B-25 Mitchell bomber It hit the 79th floor of the building.
Died 14 people, and part of the plane broke through a skyscraper and fell onto neighboring streets.
Despite the damage, the building's structure survived the impact - and the damaged floors were rebuilt in just a few months.

💠 Safety first
In its more than 90 years of existence, the Empire State has undergone dozens of upgrades from the security field.
Today it meets all fire standards, has an extensive evacuation system and monitoring of the entire facility.
It is not only a style icon, but also an example of solid, robust engineering.

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9️⃣ Race to the Top - an unusual tradition

Empire State Building Run-Up is one of the most unusual and challenging sporting events in the world. For years it has attracted competitors from around the globe, who face a challenge - Conquer 1,576 stairs leading to the 86th floor.

💠 History of the run
The first edition was held in 1978 and since then the run has been organized almost every year.
Competitors start from the first floor and must reach the observation deck as quickly as possible - no elevators, just stairs.
It is not only a sport, but also test of endurance, motivation and mental strength.

💠 The world's fastest athletes
The records are impressive, with the fastest competitors covering the course in less than 10 minutes.
Multiple winners have included Australia's Suzy Walsham and Germany Thomas Dold, known for specializing in stair running (known as tower running).
Both professional athletes and amateurs, celebrities or representatives of the uniformed services take part in the run.

💠 Symbolic meaning
For many participants, the run is more than a competition - is a personal goal, a challenge, often linked to a charitable action.
The event highlights the unique character of the Empire State Building - as a place that inspires not only with its architecture, but also with its strength of spirit.
It's also one of the few opportunities to legally... run through the stairwells of NYC legends that are closed every day.

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🔟 How to get there and what to see in the area

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Empire State Building It is located in the heart of Manhattan, on the famous 5th Avenue, at the intersection with 34th Street. The location makes it easy to get to from anywhere in New York City - whether you're traveling by subway, on foot or by cab.

💠 Access by metro and public transport
The nearest metro stations are:
🚇 34th Street-Herald Square (lines B, D, F, M, N, Q, R, W) - just a 2-minute walk.
🚇 33rd Street Station (Line 6) - about a 5-minute walk.
There are also stops of many bus lines nearby, as well as a Penn Station (Amtrak, NJ Transit and LIRR lines).

💠 What to see in the area?
Surrounding the Empire State Building is the tourist and shopping center of New York City. Within walking distance you will find:
🛍 Macy's Herald Square - The largest department store in the world.
🌳 Bryant Park - A green oasis among skyscrapers.
📚 New York Public Library - With iconic lions at the entrance.
📍 Times Square - 10-15 minutes on foot, preferably in the evening.
🛤 Grand Central Terminal - A majestic train station with a starry ceiling.
🏙 Koreatown - A bustling restaurant district literally around the corner.

💠 Opening hours and tickets
Empire State Building is open daily, usually from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m., but it is worth checking the hours on the official website before visiting.
Tickets can be purchased online or on-site - tickets are available at 86th floor, as well as more expensive options with access to 102nd floors.

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📌 Summary

Empire State Building is much more than just a skyscraper. It's New York City icon, a symbol of the strength and ambition of American society, as well as the one of the most recognizable buildings in the world. Its history - dating back to the Great Depression - shows that even in the most difficult times, it is possible to create great and timeless things.

Delights art déco style architecture, impressive in size, inspires through its presence in films, mass culture and... the daily lives of New Yorkers.
The observation decks offer unique panorama of the city, and colorful illuminations make it a emotional barometer of events local and global.

For some, it's a tourist destination, for others. A place full of memories, inspiration and symbolic meaning. One thing is certain: The Empire State Building cannot be confused with any other building in the world.