The architecture of the Arch is one of its most interesting aspects. An interesting mathematical equation has been used by the architect to construct the catenary curve shape of the Arch. The construction of the arch began on February 12, 1963, was finished on October 28, 1965. It was opened for public view on July 24, 1967. Around 13 million dollars were spent in the construction of the Gateway arch. The arch has 60-foot deep foundations and weighs 43,000 tons. The arch is very strong and sturdy and was built to survive high winds and earthquakes. Trams, designed by Dick Bowser, are used to travel through the triangular beams. Visitors gain entrance to the arch through an underground visitor's center and can take a trip to the observation deck at the top in a 40-passenger tram that runs inside the arch.
The Gateway Arch is the biggest attraction in the city of St. Louis despite having many other places and things to interest the visitors and local populace. The Museum of Westward Expansion, a four story movie theater, and an exhibit with a 45 minute documentary on the various hurdles and obstacles faced during the construction of the Arch are located just below the arch. Rare artifacts from the days of Lewis and Clark such as Indian peace medals, a genuine tepee, a Sioux war bonnet, and a covered wagon are preserved at the Museum of Westward Expansion. A larger than than life images are provided by the Odyssey theatre’s marvelous sound and lighting system. This makes the experience of watching the Lewis and Clark Great Journey West produced by National Geographic all the more alluring to the public. |
