Construction begins on the Gateway Arch in St. Louis, Missouri.
The Gateway Arch in St. Louis, Missouri, is an iconic 630-foot (192-meter) stainless steel monument that stands as the tallest arch in the world. Designed by architect Eero Saarinen and completed in 1965, it serves as a symbol of westward expansion in the United States. Located on the west bank of the Mississippi River, the Arch is the centerpiece of the Gateway Arch National Park and attracts millions of visitors each year. Its sleek, modernist design is both an engineering marvel and an artistic masterpiece, constructed with a triangular cross-section that narrows toward the top. Visitors can take a unique tram ride to the observation deck, which offers breathtaking panoramic views of St. Louis and beyond. The Gateway Arch not only represents the adventurous spirit of American pioneers but also remains a defining landmark of the city’s skyline.