Atlas

Unclaimed

To the people that posting photos from behind the statue facing the cathedral: genius and I’m sad I didn’t think to do it. (Especially that black and white one. It’s beautiful)

The Atlas sculpture is one of New York's most iconic pieces and is located in front of Rockefeller Center on Fifth Avenue, just across the street from St. Patrick's Cathedral. Atlas is more than a work of art: it is an enduring symbol of the connection between human endeavor, science and mythology. If you visit Rockefeller Center, it's a must-see stop.

The Atlas statue is a prominent bronze sculpture located at Rockefeller Center in New York City. Installed in 1937, it was created by sculptor Lee Lawrie with the assistance of Rene Paul Chambellan. The statue depicts the ancient Greek Titan Atlas holding the celestial heavens on his shoulders, symbolizing strength and endurance. Standing at 45 feet tall, it is the largest sculpture at Rockefeller Center. The figure of Atlas is 15 feet tall, and the armillary sphere he supports measures 21 feet in diameter. The statue faces Fifth Avenue, directly opposite St. Patrick's Cathedral, making it a notable landmark in Midtown Manhattan.

It’s an incredibly dynamic sculpture- as you walk around it, the pose continues to appear different. The apparent weight of the globe and Atlas’s stance surprisingly change. I give four stars instead of five because although the sculpture is great, the little plaza around the sculpture is so busy that it’s hard to appreciate the sculpture, and it’s definitely not a place you want to linger and enjoy. That said, go see it!

A majestic massive bronze sculpture attracting tourists. The sculpture is located directly opposite St. Patrick’s Cathedral. It depicts the ancient Greek titan Atlas holding up the heavens.