Watts Towers in Los Angeles (USA) - 31 meter high towers with caps, ceramics and other unusual materials
Where is located Watts Towers?
Address of Watts Towers is 1765 East 107th Street, Los Angeles, California 90002, USA
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When was built Watts Towers?
Built date of Watts Towers is 1921 - 1955
Facts, informations and history of Watts Towers
Watts Towers in Los Angeles is one of the most extraordinary works of architectural art to be found anywhere in the world. Created by one man, Simon Rodia, over three decades, these monumental towers are a testament to human perseverance, creativity and passion. In this article we will delve into the history, construction and uniqueness of this extraordinary complex.
History and background
Simon Rodia, an Italian immigrant, began construction of Watts Towers in 1921. Working alone for 33 years, he created the nine main structures that make up the entire complex. What prompted Rodia to undertake such a monumental task? As he said, he simply wanted to create something great, something that would last forever. His vision was incredibly ambitious and his determination was unimaginable.
Rodia's family home is surrounded by three tall and slender turrets, a patio, and a 38-foot-tall tower called "Gazebo". Another significant structure is the "Ship of Marco Polo", which reaches a height of 28 feet. Together, these elements create one of the most recognizable icons of Los Angeles.
Construction and materials
One of the most fascinating aspects of Watts Towers is the way in which they were built. Rodia did not have advanced tools such as drills or welding machines. Instead, he relied on simple manual techniques. He connected steel rods with rivets and then covered them with cement by hand, creating solid and durable structures.
The materials used by Rodia are also extraordinary. His work includes stones, marble, steel and cement. However, it is unusual materials such as bottle caps, pieces of porcelain, broken glass and shells that give the towers their unique character. The use of glass is particularly interesting - the green one came from 7-up bottles and the blue one came from milk bottles. There is practically no transparent glass, which adds color and shine to the whole.
Artistic and cultural value
At first, the Watts Towers were met with resistance from local authorities, who even considered destroying them. However, over time, the structures gained recognition as significant works of art. In 1990, the complex was recognized as a national historic monument, which further emphasized its cultural and artistic value.
After the earthquake in 1994, the towers were partially destroyed. Fortunately, in the years 1995-2001 a thorough reconstruction was carried out, which restored them to their former glory. Today, the Watts Towers are a symbol of one man's perseverance and creative vision, as well as a place that attracts tourists from all over the world.
Unique features and curiosities
There is a wall around Rodia's house, which is also the work of the artist. On the northern part of the wall you can find many fascinating sculptures, such as unicorns, horses and dolls. Interestingly, the wall is decorated on both sides - both external and internal, which proves Rodia's attention to detail and his endless pursuit of perfection.
In 1955, a year after Rodya's death, the house in the center of the complex burned down. Only the front facade, fireplace and chimney remained. Despite this, the Watts Towers still retain their magic and inspire new generations of artists and art lovers.
Importance to art and community
Watts Towers is more than just a collection of beautiful towers. They are a symbol of the possibilities that human determination and creativity bring. Rodia showed that regardless of the conditions, you can achieve something great if you have passion and vision. His work has become an inspiration for many artists around the world, and the towers themselves are now an inseparable element of the cultural landscape of Los Angeles.
Summary
Watts Towers in Los Angeles is a phenomenal work of art that shows what can be achieved with passion, perseverance and creativity. Simon Rodia, working alone for 33 years, created something that has stood the test of time and has become a symbol of artistic determination. These extraordinary towers, made of unusual materials and without advanced tools, are proof that true art knows no limits. Watts Towers will remain forever as a testimony to human imagination and tenacity in pursuing their dreams.
" I meant to do something huge and I did." - Simon Rodia
Architect of Watts Towers

How many meters have Watts Towers?
Height of Watts Towers is 31 m


Construction/building type
Building Watts Towers is of type Monument, Tower
Architectural style
Architectural style of Watts Towers is Modern
Modern architectural style is a style characterised primarily by simple and regular forms, a lack of ornamentation and the use of modern building materials. It is significantly different from other architectural styles, such as Baroque, Gothic or Renaissance, where more complex forms and rich ornamentation predominated. ... czytaj więcej.
What material is the building made of?
Watts Towers is made of the following materials: Steel, concrete, stone
Official website
The official website of the building, where up-to-date information can be found, is http://www.wattstowers.org
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