Hollywood Sign, Architectural landmark on Mount Lee, Los Angeles, US.
Description
The Hollywood Sign consists of nine white capital letters on the southern slope of Mount Lee, each roughly 14 meters high and together spanning over 100 meters. It stands against a forested hillside backdrop and remains visible from various points across the San Fernando Valley and downtown Los Angeles.
History
Construction workers installed the sign in 1923 as temporary real estate advertising for the Hollywoodland housing development and removed the last four letters in 1949. The letters deteriorated over decades until donations for a full restoration in the late 1970s saved the structure.
Culture
The white letters draw people from around the world who recognize them as a symbol of the film business and often make pilgrimages to selfie spots around the city. Locals see the sign as part of their daily life, visible during neighborhood walks or commutes through town.
Practical
Hiking trails in Griffith Park lead to viewpoints near the sign, with some routes requiring moderate uphill climbs on paved paths. Morning hours often offer clearer views and fewer crowds at popular photo spots along the trails.
Did you know?
Hikers cannot approach the letters directly, as a protected zone with fencing and surveillance prevents close access. The surrounding hillside was secured through community fundraising to block development plans that would have altered the backdrop behind the structure.
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Los Angeles has many large museums, parks in nature, and places to see the film industry. The Getty Villa displays collections of European art from the Middle Ages to today. The Griffith Observatory lets visitors look at the sky and see the whole city. Universal Studios shows how movies are made....
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