The Gateway Arch in St. Louis
The Gateway Arch in St. Louis is an iconic monument that stands as a symbol of the city’s history and culture. The arch was designed by Finnish-American architect Eero Saarinen and completed in 1965. It stands 630 feet tall, making it the tallest man-made monument in the United States.
History of the Arch
The arch was built to commemorate Thomas Jefferson’s role in the Louisiana Purchase, which doubled the size of the United States in 1803. It also serves as a memorial to those who explored and settled the West. The arch is located on the banks of the Mississippi River, near where Lewis and Clark began their expedition.
Features of the Arch
The arch is made up of two legs that are connected at the top by a curved steel frame. Inside, there is an elevator that takes visitors to an observation deck at the top of the arch. From here, visitors can enjoy stunning views of downtown St. Louis and beyond. There is also a museum located beneath the arch that tells the story of westward expansion.