“the world's largest cast iron statue”
Vulcan, Birmingham Alabama's colossal statue is the world's largest cast iron statue and considered one of the most memorable works of civic art in the United States. Designed by Italian artist Giuseppe Moretti and cast from local iron in 1904, it has overlooked the urban landscape of Alabama's largest city since the 1930s.But by 1999, the 50-ton statue was in desperate need of repair. The surrounding 10-acre park was closed. Vulcan was removed from his pedestal. Realizing Vulcan's importance to the region's history, city leaders sought public support for its restoration, forming the non-profit Vulcan Park Foundation. The foundation would oversee a master plan to return this colossal statue to his 1904 grandeur.But there was much more. They would also create a dynamic educational park complex interpreting Alabama's rich industrial history for both residents and visitors from across the globe.Today, thanks to public-private partnerships and a $15.5 million campaign, this beloved symbol of Birmingham and the nation's iron and steel industry stands preserved and proud as the centerpiece of it rehabilitated and expanded park, now referred to as Vulcan Park and Museum. Meet Vulcan and learn the fascinating history that makes him so significant to Birmingham!
Vulcan Park was the perfect place to have a picnic dinner and relax with my boys and an amazing view of Birmingham. The Vulcan statue is much better viewed in person and the lookout is awe inspiring. We stopped in Alabama on the way to Dallas, TX and I am so glad we took the time to go to the park. We will definitely be coming back to Birmingham to vacation and Vulcan Park will be frequented!
My 13 year old son and I stopped here on our way to Shreveport. There's a great view of Birmingham from the bottom of the statue and from the top. We took the steps because we had been driving, but there's an elevator too. The visitor center has done a great job detailing the history of Birmingham as a company town, the history of the statue and the history of the town in general. We spent about an hour there, and it was time well spent.
If you are passing through Birmingham like I was and you need to get out and stretch your legs you might as well do it here. Otherwise keep driving. I was underwhelmed by the statue. There's a very small museum attached to it which is interesting, but again very small. Good view of Birmingham, but then again the city isn't much to look at.
Stopped here on our trip to Memphis. I cannot recommend this place enough. It was a great place to stretch one's legs. On top of that, the staff at the park are incredibly helpful and informative. The views of Birmingham from the park itself and from the top of the statue are absolutely breathtaking. There's also a cool little museum housed right next to the statue. Definitely one of the best stops on our trip!
If you could only make one stop in the city, I recommend this. Great views of Birmingham, very friendly staff. Mostly dog friendly. And some fun geocaches.
Do not stop! This is a Veterinarian office! The park is located before the office which is awesome. Vulcan Park
Visited with three teens, everyone had a fun time. We raced up the hill, climbed the steps, and enjoyed the amazing views.
Our family enjoyed this tremendously! Way more than we anticipated! Be sure to check out the museum and read the letter at the end. Pretty cool stuff!
Very cool statue and overlook of Birmingham.
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Vulcan Park Animal Care
Hours
- Sat: 7:00 am - 12:00 pm
- Mon - Fri: 7:00 am - 6:00 pm
- Sun: 4:00 pm - 6:00 pm
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Pets Allowed
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