Live Life Team
The World Trade Centre Twin Towers once stood so mighty in New York City, until the 11 September 2001 attack. Ground Zero was left as a poignant reminder of that merciless terrorist attack.
After the incident, nothing was there to see in the area except for a large hole left in the ground. The situation of the entire area did not discourage tourists to flock around; instead, it became an attraction. In order for visitors to see something real, a temporary memorial and museum were opened in 2006 at the southern part of the construction site. Sad memoirs of the incident, rescue operation, and heroism of the attack’s aftermath were displayed in the five galleries of the museum. Plans on what is to replace the lost World Trade Centre are currently in process. These include the construction of the main attraction, the Freedom Tower, which will be much higher than the Twin Towers. It is planned to be about 1776 feet high with a giant antenna on the top. The foundation for this new tower was begun in mid-2006 and is set to be completed by 2011. There are still five planned new towers to be constructed on the site as well. Also to be constructed is a memorial to be called Reflecting Absence, which will cost $1 billion, more expensive than the previous Twin Towers.
Ground Zero is open from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., except for Tuesdays and Sundays, with a suggested donation of $10 or less, or you can pay nothing at all. There is also a walking tour in the area or 75 minutes every day. Tour groups form at the Visitors’ Centre, where tickets are sold for $10 per person.
