What Happened to the Twin Towers?
The World Trade Center was not just New York’s pride but was America’s most prized possession. The architectural and structural excellence of this marvel was looked upon by the world. In fact, at that time, it was every employee’s dream to work in Lower Manhattan’s tallest buildings, the Twin Towers.
But, dreams soon shattered to dust and ashes after the black day, September 11, 2001, when the North and South Towers were attacked by Al-Qaeda terrorists. Within a matter of a few minutes, what could have been a beautiful Tuesday turned to be America’s day of terror, cries, and deaths. Nearly 3000 people including employees, firefighters, police, and first responders lost their lives in the aftermath of the terrorist attack in New York’s busiest borough.
Inside the 9/11 Memorial
10 years after the unforgettable tragedy, on September 11, 2011, the 9/11 memorial and museum was opened for the public. Covering a total area of 11,000 square feet, the memorial consists of 2 large fountains built in the exact location where the towers stood majestically. The 30-feet deep pools indicate the concept ‘Reflecting Absence’ and has names of all the victims of the attack inscribed on the pitch-black granite walls.
1. Which Year Were the Twin Towers Attacked? 2004
- A. 2004
- B. 2002
- C. 2001
- D. 2009
History & Artifacts
The museum has been built below the ground to reflect the tragedy of ground zero. With 10,000 artifacts, 23,000 images from the fateful day, and about 1000 oral histories, the museum is sure to bring us tears and haunting memories from the past. From a long steel pillar that survived the collapse to the famous survivor stairs that helped thousands escape the building before the collapse, it would be an emotional journey for everyone who visits the museum. First responder hats, shoes, truck, medals, parts of the airplanes American Flight 11 and United Airlines Flight 175 that hit the towers, employee possessions, etc comprise the tearful artifacts displayed at the museum.
One of the highlights of the memorial is the Survivor Tree, a Callery Pear that survived the attacks. This tree has been safely planted back to reflect hope. Apart from this, there are nearly 400 swamp white oak trees spread across the area.
The 9/11 memorial is open for visitors from 9 am to 8 pm. The tickets can be either purchased at the counter or bought online. No matter you are a tourist or a native, this memorial is a must-visit for its soulful structure to walk down the tearful memory lane.