World Trade Center Today

As it turns out, World Trade Center – the place where the two famous towers used to stand – is often one of the first things NYC tourists want to see. New Yorkers, on the other hand, don’t mention it too often – most of them probably don’t even remember when was it that they wandered into that area. Still, for the tourists, it seems to be the absolute No. 1 priority.

I’m near WTC every couple of weeks, but it wasn’t till March that I actually went to see what the place where the towers used to be at looks like. For some reason, I was sure that it was in the exact same spot that the new Freedom Tower was erected, but that’s not the case at all. Two giant holes in the ground, which were left in the wake of what used to be the NYC landmark, are now two slanted fountains, with a small park called 9/11 Memorial attached. On the granite edges of the fountains, you will find the names of those killed in the attacks of 11th September 2001. Simply spending some time at this place, amidst the sound of the falling water and in the shade of the brand new skyscraper, makes you ponder the events that took place here, as well as pay respect to the innocent victims and the heroes taking part in the rescue missions. Watch my youtube video.

The project of the new WTC consists of four new skyscrapers, led by the Freedom Tower, which is almost completed.

Entrance is free of charge, but you need to register on the website first www.911memorial.org/visitor-passes. (I and my parents got in without registering first since the guy told us: “Today no problem” – as soon as we heard “no problem”, we were inside.) 

It’s a good idea to combine visiting the former WTC with stepping into the building located across from it – Brookfield Place. Inside, you will find a white hall straight out of a sci-fi movie, as well as the number of escalators you are ever likely to see, plus… a palm garden. You can lift your head up and look at the Freedom Tower through the rooftop, as you immerse yourself in live music being played.

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