Central Park Bethesda Terrace

Bethesda Terrace and Fountain overlook The Lake in New York City's Central Park. Bethesda Terrace's two levels are united by two grand staircases and ...
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Bethesda Terrace and Fountain overlook The Lake in New York City's Central Park. Bethesda Terrace's two levels are united by two grand staircases and a lesser one that passes under Terrace Drive. Bethesda Fountain, constructed between 1859 and 1864, is the central feature on the lower level of the terrace. The bronze sculpture of the fountain is a winged female angel called Angel of the Waters. The 4 cherubs under her are Temperance, Purity, Health, and Peace. The statue refers to healing the paralytic at Bethesda, a story from the Bible about an angel blessing the Pool of Bethesda, giving it healing powers.She carries a lily representing purity in one hand, and blesses the water below with the other hand.
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