In the middle of thistraffic circle is an iconic monument that celebrates the great explorer andmarks the transition from the city to the relaxing atmosphere of Central Park.
Columbus Circle is aroundabout at the southwest entry point to Central Park. Within this grandmemorial space are places to sit, unwind and watch the passing rhythms of this“city that never sleeps.”
Columbus Circle isone of four individual plazas that act as a gateway between the city andCentral Park. The open, circular area was originally a turning place forhorse-drawn vehicles. The monument at the center was created by Sicilian artistGaetano Russo and in 1892, on the 400th anniversary of Christopher Columbus’sarrival in the Americas, it was donated to the City of New York by theItalian-American community.
Stroll around thesculpture and admire the Carrara marble figure of Christopher Columbus. Hestands atop a foundation of water fountains that are modeled on the waterfeatures in Rome. Notice on the base the allegorical Genius of Discovery aswell as the bronze reliefs showing images of Columbus’s travels, a lotus crestand a bald-headed eagle. On the granite column see the bows of ships andanchors.
Take a seat near themonument, people-watch and admire the buildings and the open views. Listen tothe sounds of the water fountain, watch street performers and pick up anItalian snack at one of the surrounding cafés. Visit at night to see themonument illuminated by lights.
Explore the buildingssurrounding Columbus Circle. Check out the Time Warner Center and the Museum ofArts and Design. Surrounding the monument is a great selection of shops,including men’s and ladies’ fashion, homewares and beauty stores. During theChristmas season, shop at the Columbus Circle Holiday Market. Afterwards, headto Central Park for a relaxing stroll amongst nature.
ColumbusCircle is located at the intersection between 59th street, Eighth Avenue and Broadway,and sits atop a subway station by the same name.
