Manhattan · NYC landmark
Manhattan Bridge Arch and Colonnade
Manhattan Bridge Plaza at Canal Street · Manhattan, New York City
See the monumental arch and colonnade at the Manhattan entrance to the bridge, an easy architecture stop near Chinatown.
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NYFE Summary
The entrance was designed as a ceremonial gateway to the bridge. Its arch draws on the Porte Saint-Denis in Paris, while the curved colonnades recall Saint Peter’s Square in Rome. These references reflect the City Beautiful movement’s aim to give public works the scale and decoration of civic monuments.
Details extend beyond the columns. The arch has winged figures, lion heads and a recessed ceiling, while a relief shows a buffalo hunt. The entrance can be examined from the surrounding public sidewalks. Its decoration belongs to the bridge approach, so it is easiest to see before starting across the span.
NYFE summary from the official history and visitor sources linked below.
Plan a visit
Check the operator’s current opening, admission and access information before travelling. Historic status does not guarantee public access to every interior.
Official visitor information ↗