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List of New York City Designated Landmarks in Manhattan facts for kids

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The New York City Landmarks Preservation Commission (LPC) is a special group in New York City that helps protect important buildings, places, and even parks. It was created in 1965 to make sure that the city's history and unique beauty are saved for everyone to enjoy, now and in the future. Think of them as guardians of the city's amazing past!

The LPC decides which places are so special that they need to be preserved. Since they started, they have protected over a thousand places. These special places are called "landmarks," and they fit into four main types: individual landmarks, interior landmarks, scenic landmarks, and historic districts.

Protecting New York City's History

The New York City Landmarks Preservation Commission (LPC) plays a super important role in keeping New York City's past alive. Their main job is to find and protect places that have special historical, architectural, or cultural value. This means they make sure these places aren't torn down or changed in ways that would make them lose their unique character.

What is a Landmark?

A landmark is a building, a place, or even a specific part of a building that has been officially recognized as very important. It could be important because of its amazing design, its connection to famous people or events, or simply because it tells a story about how New York City grew over time. Once a place is named a landmark, it gets special protection.

Types of Landmarks in NYC

The LPC protects different kinds of landmarks, each with its own unique features. Understanding these types helps us appreciate the many ways history is preserved in the city.

Individual Landmarks

These are usually single buildings, like a famous skyscraper, an old church, or a beautiful house. They are chosen because of their unique architecture, their age, or their connection to important events or people. For example, the Empire State Building or Grand Central Terminal are individual landmarks.

Interior Landmarks

Sometimes, it's not just the outside of a building that's special, but also the inside! Interior landmarks protect the unique designs and features of a building's interior spaces. This could be a grand lobby, a historic theater, or a stunning public room that has kept its original look and feel.

Scenic Landmarks

These landmarks are not buildings at all! Scenic landmarks are important outdoor spaces, like parks, gardens, or even specific landscapes. They are protected because of their natural beauty, their design, or their role as a green space in the busy city. Central Park is a great example of a scenic landmark.

Historic Districts

A historic district is a whole neighborhood or a group of buildings that together tell a story. Instead of protecting just one building, the LPC protects an entire area because its buildings, streets, and overall feel are historically important. This helps keep the original character of a neighborhood intact. For instance, parts of Greenwich Village are historic districts.

Exploring Manhattan's Landmarks

The borough of Manhattan is home to a huge number of landmarks chosen by the LPC. It has many individual buildings, several interior landmarks, seven scenic landmarks, and numerous historic districts. These landmarks are spread all across the island, from its southern tip to its northern end.

Landmark Lists by Area

To make it easier to explore, the lists of Manhattan's landmarks are often divided by geographical region. This helps people find specific landmarks in different parts of the borough. You can find lists for:

See also

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List of New York City Designated Landmarks in Manhattan Facts for Kids. Kiddle Encyclopedia.