attraction / Bethesda Terrace
Bethesda Terrace
Bethesda Terrace is described as the "heart" of central park. Located in the lower centre of the park, Bethesda Terrace follows The Mall promenade and overlooks The Ramble and The Lake. The terrace is where tourists and locals can be seen relaxing, admiring the architecture or rowing on the lake. Bethesda fountain, "The Angel of the Waters" is one of the most iconic landmarks in all of manhattan.
Bethesda Terrace was constructed in 1859, and was one of the first structures in Central Park. It's purpose was a gathering space for Park visitors. The designer Calvert Vaux, assisted by Jacob Wrey Mould, intended the terrace to combine both art and architecture while focussing the design on a more naturalistic tone to contrast to other landmarks in the park. The 16,000 tiles that make up the roof are the only encaustic tiles in the world. They combine to 49 panels in a stunning geometric pattern. The tiles were originally produced in Stone-on-Trent in England. Due to the weight of the ceiling, over time the tiles began to deteriorate, causing the Central Park Conservancy to remove the tiles in 1983 and store them until they raised the required $7million for restoration costs. In 2002, the Conservancy cleaned, repaired and restored the tiles with additional features such as steel support, waterproofing, and lighting. The work completed in 2007.
Bethesda Terrace and The Angel of the Waters" have been featured in countless films and TV shows such as The Avengers, Gossip Girl, Doctor Who, Enchanted, Home Alone 2, and many more. The Bethesda Terrace is the most iconic landmark in Central Park and brings millions of tourists each year to admire the beauty of itself and surrounding Central Park attractions.