The Irish Famine memorial in New York City has reopened after the completion of a five million dollar redevelopment project.
The attraction, located just a few minute walk away from Ground Zero has reopened after an extensive renovation. The original site of the memorial opened in 2002 but was seriously affected over the past 15 years by continuous water damage. The site opened again in 2017 but had to be re-closed to allow for the final landscaping. This included transplanting vegetation directly from Ireland to make the site as authentic to its Irish roots as possible.
Set on one half acre of land in Lower Manhattan, the site overlooks the Hudson River. The paths, which feature stones imported from each of Ireland’s 32 counties, lead to beautiful views of the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island. Located on the site is an authentic Irish Famine era cottage that was donated by County Mayo, disassembled and brought over from Ireland to be reconstructed on site. The overall feeling is as if you have been transported into Ireland’s rolling green hills, just in the heart of Manhattan.
According to the Battery Park City Authority,
“The Irish Hunger Memorial was first dedicated over 15 years ago. It has now reopened to stand for coming generations as a place of reflection and remembrance. And just as America has long welcomed immigrants from Ireland and beyond, we’re pleased to once again welcome Battery Park City visitors to experience this poignant tribute to the unbreakable human spirit.”
As of now, the renovation has been fully completed and is open to visitors.
Featured image: thejournal.ie