The Sphere in Battery Park

For three decades, this sculpture called "The Sphere" was located in the plaza of the World Trade Center, between the Twin Towers. Designed by Fritz Koenig, it was supposed to be a symbol of world peace, and was badly damaged in the terrorist attacks of 2001. Despite the damage, it was placed overlooking the harbor (where you take the ferry to Staten Island) on March 11, 2002 as a temporary memorial to all who lost their lives in the attacks, and now an eternal flame has been lit in front of it.

This memorial sphere to 9/11 can be seen if you are on the ferry to the Statue of Liberty. You can approach the damaged area and see the eternal flame; it doesn't take more than 10-15 minutes out of your visit to New York.