·

Discover Miami’s Historic Gems on ‘International Day for Monuments and Sites’

We’ve selected five remarkable landmarks around Downtown Miami that showcase the city’s past and culture.

Apr 18, 2023 · 3 Minute Read

International Monument Day illustration

Miami is a city steeped in history, and the best way to fully immerse yourself in it is by visiting its remarkable monuments and sites. These treasures offer a glimpse into Miami’s storied past and the impact these landmarks have had on the city’s development. On International Day for Monuments and Sites, there’s no better time to explore these iconic pieces and learn about the legacy that has made Miami the vibrant and dynamic city it is today.

  • 1. Dropped Bowl with Scattered Slices and Peels

    Stephen P. Clark Government Center

    Dropped Bowl with Scattered Slices and Peels

    The Dropped Bowl with Scattered Slices and Peels sculpture was created by Claes Oldenburg and Coosje van Bruggen in 1990 for the Miami-Dade Government Center. Commissioned by the Art in Public Places program, the sculpture reflects Miami’s vibrant culture and tropical fruits, featuring a colorful fiberglass bowl with scattered fruit slices and peels.

  •  

  • 2. The Challenger Memorial

    Bayfront Park

    The Challenger Memorial

    In 1986, the Space Shuttle Challenger exploded moments after takeoff, killing all seven crew members, including a teacher, Christa McAuliffe. The Challenger Memorial, built in 1987 at Florida International University, honors their sacrifice with seven granite columns, each inscribed with a crew member’s name. Visitors can pay their respects to these brave astronauts who ventured into the final frontier.

  •  

  • 3. The Henry Flagler Statue

    Miami-Dade County Courthouse

    The Henry Flagler Statue

    Henry Flagler, a railroad tycoon, developed Florida’s east coast and played a pivotal role in shaping Miami’s infrastructure. The Henry Flagler Statue in Bayfront Park celebrates his contributions and shows him holding a map of Florida in one hand, symbolizing his forward-thinking vision for the state.

  •  

  • 4. The Julia Tuttle Statue

    Bayfront Park Path

    The Julia Tuttle Statue

    Julia Tuttle, the “Mother of Miami,” persuaded Flagler in 1891 to expand his railway to Miami, leading to the city’s development. The Julia Tuttle Statue on Biscayne Boulevard depicts her holding an orange, symbolizing Miami’s early citrus industry. The statue honors Tuttle’s vision and impact on the city’s growth.

  • 5. Section of the Berlin Wall

    135-199 NE 3rd St

    Section of the Berlin Wall

    In 1990, when the Berlin Wall was taken down, pieces of the wall were gifted to different cities around the world as a symbol of unity and freedom. Miami was one of the lucky cities to receive a piece of the wall. The 10-foot-tall, 3,000-pound monument stands tall in Downtown Miami, and visitors can see the graffiti-covered concrete slabs that once divided West and East Germany.

Don’t miss the opportunity to celebrate Miami’s cultural and architectural heritage by exploring these iconic landmarks that offer something for everyone and pay tribute to the city’s unique history.



More News