Angel Of The North, Newcastle upon Tyne

Standing tall as a contemporary icon in the city of Newcastle upon Tyne, the Angel of the North is a monumental statue that has become a symbol of the area's cultural identity and industrial heritage. This colossal steel sculpture, completed in 1998, is the work of renowned artist Antony Gormley. With an impressive wingspan of 54 meters and a height of 20 meters, the Angel of the North is one of the most significant public art pieces in the UK.

The statue is situated on a hill in Gateshead, overlooking the A1 and A167 roads, and is visible for miles around, serving as a welcoming beacon to travelers. Its massive scale and prominent location make it one of the most viewed pieces of art in the world, with an estimated 33 million people seeing it every year.

The Angel of the North's design is not only striking but also engineered to withstand time and the elements—it is built to endure wind speeds of over 100 mph. The extensive foundations penetrate deep into the ground, anchoring the sculpture, which is made of weathering steel, a material that develops a rust-like appearance that does not corrode further, thus ensuring its longevity.

The sculpture's significance lies not only in its artistic value but also in its symbolism; it represents the transition from an industrial era to a new age. It stands on the site of a former colliery, paying tribute to the mining communities that once thrived in the region.

Open to the public all year round and free to visit, the Angel of the North offers a unique experience to contemplate art, history, and landscape. It is not only a sight to behold but also a place for reflection on the past and future of the North of England.