Guggenheim Museum

For something built in the late ‘50s, the Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum in New York has a futuristic design. Even in today’s ultra modern infrastructure, this building is still one of the most recognizable landmarks in the city.

A museum that houses painting and modern sculpture along Fifth Avenue, the Guggenheim Museum was completed in 1959. Its designer, Frank Lloyd Wright, was instructed to built a “temple of spirit, a monument!” by the curator and director of the museum Hilla Rebay. The architect’s inverted ziggurat design was in no way close to the typical chess board type structures that New York City seemed to flaunt at that time. While Wright was commissioned to design the building in 1943, it was only until 1956 that the actual construction began.

Many believe that this is the single most important creation of Wright. Its design makes good use of space, an ode to modernism that only a great architect can envision. The spiral ramp that seemed to climb to the domed skylight is an attraction all its own, especially for first time museum visitors. This building could not have been any better to house some of the city’s contemporary art. The design, however, was not only made for aesthetic purposes, it also allows for a distinctive presentation of exhibits – not to mention that visitors can move easily through the large main exhibits.

Within the collections in the museum are modern paintings and unique sculptures. This museum arguably has the most interesting art gallery and it’s definitely a must to enter this unmistakable structure when you are in New York. Beyond the main gallery is an annex that houses yet more art treasures for art enthusiasts. Whether you are an art purist or simply like to marvel at architectural masterpiece, a day tour is worth your effort.