Lesser-Known Replicas of the Statue of Liberty Around the World
The Statue of Liberty, a symbol of freedom and democracy, is one of the most recognizable landmarks in the world. Standing tall in New York Harbor, this gift from France to the United States in 1886 has inspired numerous replicas across the globe. While most people are familiar with the prominent copies in Paris and Las Vegas, there are many lesser-known replicas that carry unique histories, cultural significance, and intriguing stories. In this blog post, we’ll explore some of these hidden gems, each offering a fresh perspective on Lady Liberty’s enduring legacy.
The Story Behind Statue of Liberty Replicas
Replicas of the Statue of Liberty have been erected in various countries for different reasons—some as tributes to Franco-American relations, others as symbols of freedom, and a few simply as artistic or commercial installations. These statues range from full-scale versions to miniature models tucked away in unexpected corners of the world. Below, we highlight some of the most fascinating lesser-known replicas of the Statue of Liberty.
Lesser-Known Replicas of the Statue of Liberty Worldwide
Odaiba, Tokyo, Japan
Location: Odaiba, a man-made island in Tokyo Bay
Why it’s unique: First installed in 1998 as part of a France-Japan cultural celebration. The original plan was for the statue to remain for only a year, but it became so popular that a permanent version was placed in the same spot in 2000. Overlooking the Rainbow Bridge, this Lady Liberty has become a beloved Tokyo landmark, especially during the cherry blossom season when it makes for a stunning photo backdrop.
Colmar, France
Location: Entrance of Colmar, Alsace
Why it’s unique: A tribute to the Statue of Liberty’s original sculptor, Frédéric Auguste Bartholdi.
Many don’t realize that the creator of the Statue of Liberty, Frédéric Auguste Bartholdi, was born in Colmar, France. In 2004, to commemorate the 100th anniversary of his death, the town erected a 12-meter (39-foot) replica at one of its main entrances. Unlike other replicas, this one serves as a homecoming of sorts, honoring the artist behind the global icon.
Brazoria, Texas, USA
Location: Private property, but visible from the road. installed on the Texas State Capitol grounds in Austin, Texas, United States.
Why it’s unique: A quirky, privately owned replica in an unexpected place.
Texas has its share of unusual landmarks, and a Statue of Liberty replica in Brazoria is one of them. Nestled on private property but easily visible from the road, this statue is a surprising sight for travelers. While not as famous as the one in Las Vegas, it adds a touch of patriotic flair to this small Texas town.
Las Vegas
Location: The New York, New York Hotel & Casino
Why it’s unique: Experience a slice of old-school Manhattan right on the Las Vegas Strip at the New York-New York Hotel & Casino, where a striking Statue of Liberty replica stands tall with a softer, more refined expression. With its pale green hue and distinctive features, this version of Lady Liberty adds a unique twist to the city’s skyline while still capturing the spirit of the original.
Yankee Stadium
Location: 161st Street near Yankee Stadium, The Bronx, New York City
Why it’s unique: Right next to Yankee Stadium, a low-key Statue of Liberty replica sits atop an eye care clinic, casually watching over the Bronx. No one’s quite sure how it got there, but its unexpected placement makes it a quirky nod to New York’s most iconic symbol.
Buenos Aires, Argentina
Location: Plaza Barrancas de Belgrano
Why it’s unique: An overlooked piece of history, installed long before many other replicas.
Buenos Aires is home to a lesser-known Statue of Liberty replica that has stood in Plaza Barrancas de Belgrano since the early 20th century. Often mistaken for a random monument, this statue was actually installed as a tribute to liberty and democracy, symbolizing Argentina’s historical ties with France. Despite its age, it remains largely unnoticed by many locals and tourists alike.
Visnes, Norway
Location: Visnes, a small town on Norway’s west coast
Why it’s unique: The copper for the original Statue of Liberty came from this town.
Few people know that the copper used to create the Statue of Liberty was mined in Visnes, Norway. To honor this contribution, the town erected its own replica of Lady Liberty. While it is smaller than many other copies, it holds immense historical value, serving as a reminder of the town’s unexpected role in shaping one of the world’s most famous monuments.
Lviv, Ukraine
Location: On top of a historic building in Lviv
Why it’s unique: A hidden architectural gem. Known as the “lazy statue”,
Lviv, a city known for its beautiful old buildings, has a secret Statue of Liberty sitting atop one of its historic structures. This version of Lady Liberty is not a standalone statue but rather an architectural detail. Though not immediately obvious to passersby, it adds an interesting twist to the city’s eclectic mix of European influences.
Billund, Denmark
Location: Legoland Billund
Why it’s unique: At Legoland Billund, the Statue of Liberty gets a playful twist—built entirely from Lego bricks. This colorful take on the iconic monument proves that even Lady Liberty can have a little fun in Denmark.
Seattle, Washington, USA
Location: Alki Beach, Seattle, Washington, U.S.
Why it’s unique: A tribute from local Boy Scouts, with an interesting restoration history.
In 1952, the Boy Scouts of America installed a small Statue of Liberty at Alki Beach as part of a nationwide initiative to celebrate freedom. Over time, the statue suffered damage from weather and vandalism. However, thanks to community efforts, it was restored and remains a proud symbol of liberty along the Seattle shoreline.
Normandy Region, France
Location: Vascoeuil Castle in France
Why it’s unique: Salvador Dalí’s take on the Statue of Liberty at Vascoeuil Castle in France breaks all the rules—because why hold one torch when you can hold two? This 1972 sculpture brings Dalí’s signature surrealism to an already iconic figure, making it a bold and unexpected tribute.
Brazil
Location: behind the Museum of Image and Sound of Alagoas (MISA)
Why it’s unique: In a quiet square behind the Museum of Image and Sound of Alagoas, a cast metal Statue of Liberty stands as an unexpected piece of Americana in Maceió. Small but striking, it adds a curious touch of New York to Brazil’s coastal capital.
Brooklyn Museum
Location: Behind the Brooklyn Museum
Why it’s unique: Behind the Brooklyn Museum, a lesser-known Statue of Liberty replica stands quietly in a parking lot, blending history with the everyday. It’s an unassuming yet fitting tribute in a borough that’s always had its own take on iconic symbols.
Israel
Location: Netivot, Israel
Why it’s unique: Netivot, a small town in southern Israel, is home to a close-knit community of ultra-Orthodox Sephardic Jews and offers a unique mix of cultural and spiritual heritage. While the tomb of Baba Sali draws visitors seeking his legendary healing powers, the town remains a hidden gem for those looking to explore an authentic slice of Israeli life.
Dauphin, Pennsylvania
Location: US-22, Dauphin, PA 17018 Dauphin, Pennsylvania
Why it’s unique: A mixed media replica now stands on an old bridge piling in the Susquehanna River in Dauphin, Pennsylvania, replacing a previous version that was destroyed by severe weather in the 1990s. The installation adds a unique touch to the river, continuing a legacy that began in 1986.
The Statue of Liberty’s influence extends far beyond New York Harbor. These lesser-known replicas, scattered across the world, tell stories of history, patriotism, artistic expression, and international connections. While some were built as tributes to freedom, others celebrate local ties to Lady Liberty’s creation. The next time you travel, keep an eye out—you might just stumble upon a miniature (or not-so-miniature) Lady Liberty where you least expect it.
More…
- https://www.statueoflibertytour.com/blog/where-to-find-statue-of-liberty-replicas-in-nyc-and-beyond/
- https://www.theguardian.com/artanddesign/gallery/2016/oct/28/statue-of-liberty-130-anniversary-replicas-in-pictures
- https://www.statueofliberty.org/foundation/the-torch/liberty-replicas
- https://www.usatoday.com/picture-gallery/travel/destinations/10greatplaces/2019/05/17/statue-liberty-replicas-around-world/3696715002/
- https://explanders.com/europe-arctic-circle/france/paris/replicas-of-the-statue-of-liberty/
- https://www.overherenewyork.com/statue-of-liberty-travel-guide-for-seniors/