WTC design significant in many ways

THE centrepiece of the reconstructed World Trade Center area features a gigantic spire, rising 1,776 feet high. This impressive piece of architecture was created in close collaboration with families of the victims of 9/11.

The spire is the brainchild of German-born designer Daniel Libeskind, whose family emigrated to New York from post-war Germany in 1959.

The figure 1776 is highly significant, marking the date that France, standing alongside its Continental Army allies, accepted the surrender of Britain at Yorktown, the year America first declared its independence.

At a time when the Bush administration has with some hostility, described both France and Germany as belonging to “old Europe”, it’s significant that such a strong “old Europe” connection exists in the Ground Zero project.

The spire represents the human expression of all that is best in personal freedom, independence and modern democracy. In its 1776 designation, it also says thank you to “old Europe” for winning the freedom that Americans now enjoy and proudly boast of.

Dave Sheehy,

Castleconnell,

Co Limerick.