description Hollywood Sign Overview
The Hollywood Sign is a large hillside sign on Mount Lee in the Hollywood Hills area of Los Angeles, California. It was erected in 1923 as an advertisement reading "HOLLYWOODLAND" for a local real-estate development, with the final four letters later removed. The surviving sign became an internationally recognized symbol of Hollywood, the American film industry, and Los Angeles.
help Hollywood Sign FAQ
Why were there extra letters on the Hollywood Sign when it was first built?
When the sign was originally erected in 1923, it actually spelled out "Hollywoodland" to advertise a local real estate development. The last four letters were physically removed in 1949 when the city of Los Angeles took over maintenance and repaired the deteriorating structure.
Can you legally hike all the way up to touch the Hollywood Sign?
No, hiking directly up to the sign is strictly prohibited by the city to protect both the landmark and the surrounding ecological reserve. However, you can get excellent views of the sign by taking designated trails in Griffith Park, such as the hike near the Bronson Caves.
How tall are the actual letters that make up the Hollywood Sign?
Each of the white letters stands approximately 45 feet tall and is roughly 30 feet wide. The sign underwent a massive reconstruction in 1978, where completely new letters were built using steel and concrete to replace the rotting originals.
Who owns the Hollywood Sign and maintains it today?
The sign sits on land owned by the City of Los Angeles and is protected as part of Griffith Park. Its ongoing maintenance, security, and any necessary refurbishments are managed by the Hollywood Sign Trust, a nonprofit organization.
explore Explore More
Similar to Hollywood Sign
See all arrow_forward
Reviews & Comments
Write a Review
Be the first to review
Share your thoughts with the community and help others make better decisions.
