If you have ever been to downtown Miami, the Freedom Tower looms large as an iconic landmark. But do you know its history? Come along with me as we check it out. Admission is normally $18 for adults, but on the first weekend of each month, Bank of America account holders can visit for free through the Museums on Us program. You can also park for free in the Miami Dade College Wolfson Campus Garage, located just a block from the tower. The story of the Freedom Tower begins with James Middleton Cox, a former Ohio congressman, governor, and presidential candidate who came to Miami in 1923. He built the tower in 1925 to house his newly purchased newspaper, The Miami Daily News and Metropolis, which later became The Miami News. With 17 floors, the tower became Miami's first skyscraper. It was designed by the prestigious New York architectural firm Schultze and Weaver, which also designed the Waldorf Astoria New York, The Breakers, and the Hotel Sevilla-Biltmore. The Miami News Tower was modeled after the Giralda bell tower of the Cathedral of Seville in Spain. It was designed in the Mediterranean Revival style, which was popular during Florida's land boom years of the 1920's. In 1957, Miami News moved out of the tower. From 1962 to 1974, it was the home of the Cuban Refugee Center, which opened following the Cuban Revolution. Enacted during President John F. Kennedy's administration, the Migration and Refugee Assistance Act of 1962 authorized aid for the large number of Cubans fleeing the island in search of political asylum. The U.S. government leased the building to process, document, and provide medical and dental care for the influx of Cuban exiles. During this period, the building became known as "El Refugio" ("The Refuge"), or the Freedom Tower. Nicknamed the "Ellis Island of the South," the Freedom Tower became a symbol of hope and freedom for those seeking democracy. After the refugee center closed, the tower was sold, fell into neglect, and was nearly demolished. Community leaders stepped in to save it, and it was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1979. In 1997, the tower was purchased by Jorge Mas Canosa, founder and leader of the Cuban American National Foundation. He passed away only two months after purchasing the building, but his family continued with his restoration plans. In 2004, they sold the tower to another Cuban American family, the Pedro Martin family. In 2005, the building was donated to Miami Dade College, the largest Hispanic-serving institution of higher education in the United States. The tower was designated a National Historic Landmark on October 6, 2008. In July 2025, the Freedom Tower celebrated its 100th anniversary. As part of the centennial celebration, the tower underwent significant renovations, including several new exhibits. These include Libertad, a permanent exhibition on the first and second floors that tells the story of how Miami was shaped by immigration through digital installations, personal testimonials, and historic artifacts. Another exhibit, El Refugio in Context, examines the Freedom Tower's role as a Cuban Refugee Center during the 1960s. One room has been recreated to look as it did when the tower served as a Cuban processing center. Another exhibit, Unidad: The World's Game, was created by the FIFA Museum and showcases how soccer, or fútbol, inspires and connects billions of people around the world. Visitors can explore historic artifacts, interactive stations, and immersive installations. I expect this exhibit to be especially popular when the FIFA World Cup comes to Miami in June. The tournament is the most prestigious competition in international soccer, bringing together the world's best men's national teams every four years to compete for the sport's highest honor. I also enjoyed viewing Languages of Migration in the Kislak Center. This exhibition explores global migration through rare maps, colonial-era artifacts, and contemporary art. The Freedom Tower is open Wednesday through Sunday from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM. I very much enjoyed my visit and highly recommend adding this historic landmark to any itinerary that includes downtown Miami. The exhibits bring Miami's rich history to life. Freedom is not free, and the tower stands as a powerful reminder of that through the stories and memories of those who have left their mark on this important cultural landmark. read more

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Such a beautiful space. Went to and event for the Miami film festival and didnt know what to expect when I walked in. The decor was minimal but beautiful. Very spacious and parking was very easy read more

We explored this museum the other day, and I was so impressed! It was incredibly well done, and is beautiful inside. The majority of it has to do with the history of Cuban immigration to the U.S., but there was also history of the building and of Miami, an exhibition about the "languages of migration", and there was a FIFA museum inside. There were so many different media types to take in all the information, and a lot of it was interactive. We were there about 2.5 hours and that's with our 3-year-old and trying to rush bc she was hungry for lunch. I would definitely go back to take in more. read more

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The freedom Tower Museum recently opened back opened up. I had always wanted to go into the building, so I waited eagerly for it to reopen. I was blown away by my visit. The building is so iconic and has a dominant presence along Biscayne Boulevard. Currently associated with Miami Dade College, the building was opened in 1925 as headquarters for the Miami News newspaper and then in the 1960s and 70s it was used as the Cuban refugee center. Tickets, $18, can be pre-purchased for time to entry. The interior entryway is beautiful. On the first floor you will find interactive kiosks each with a different Miami story There is also the theater that shows stories of Cuban refugees. The second floor houses several poignant exhibits, including journeys of freedom and voices of Miami. The third and fourth floors showcase the FIFA museum with so much history and artifacts from the global game of soccer. I highly recommend a visit to the Freedom Tower read more

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We are so incredibly fortunate to have such an amazing and beautiful historical institution available to the public like the Freedom Tower. The Freedom Tower stands in stark juxtaposition today to the shiny glass skyscrapers (although the tower itself was the original first skyscraper in Miami!) showing a glimpse of the Miami that was. It tells an amazing story of the beginning of young city creating its first journalistic publications to of course what it's known for today as being a guiding light and community center for immigrants, namely the Cuban community, into the United States. The tower recently reopened to the public and the exhibits are incredible. I last visited over a decade ago when I was in college and unfortunately remember being a little overwhelmed by the exhibits as it was a dark and sparse space with uninspiring exhibits. It's completely transformed today with some of the most impressively engaging exhibits creatively expressed in a variety of forms - digital media, oral history told directly by those who lived these experiences, replicas of the original facilities, interactive elements, etc. Even their gift shop is beautiful and impressive, my friend and I did not leave with a souvenir! It's a must-do for all Miami residents and visitors and well worth the $18 general admission cost ($12 discounted ticket for students up to 18 yrs, $14 discounted ticket for seniors). We were very fortunate to have our tour personally led by Dr. Amy Galpin, who oversees the museum in her scope as Executive Director Dir and Chief Curator at MDC, who led an engaging and informative tour. It's great to see an important institution in the hands of someone so passionate about the mission and we as residents absolutely need to support this gem of an institution in our community. Please visit the Freedom Tower and take all your family and friends! read more

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This iconic and historic building has dominated the Miami skyline since 1925 for so many Cubans, who fled their own country to live in freedom from oppression and communism. It is very stately looking among the modern skyrises in Miami. You can't help but notice it, especially when it is lit up at night. I believe it is an icon for all immigrants, much like Ellis Island is in New York, who welcomed so many Europeans to America and helped them get settled. My parents immigrated here in the 50s from Latvia, when Soviet Russia brutally took over so many small countries that couldn't fight back against the communists. When I drive past the Feedom Tower, my eyes start watering, and I get chills. I think of what my grandparents and parents went through to come here to this land of freedom. I hope and pray that we never lose our freedom! read more

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Museum of Art and Design Miami Dade College Freedom Tower 600 Biscayne Blvd, Second floor Miami,Fl 33132 305 237-7700 I was stuck in traffic but it was an excellent opportunity to take a picture of this iconic building. Here is some information on this beautiful building. Miami Dade College's National Historic Landmark Freedom Tower has been an icon on the Downtown Miami skyline since 1925. A storied location with deep connections to Miami's Cuban American community, the Freedom Tower is home to the flagship Museum of Art and Design and MDC Special Collections, which include the Cuban Legacy Gallery, the Kislak Center, and the Exile Experience. The Freedom Tower also houses MDC's Cultural Affairs Department and the offices of the Miami Book Fair, the Miami Film Festival, and MDC Live Arts. Built-in 1925 as a new home for the city's oldest newspaper and a grand architectural assertion of Miami's urban ambition, the Freedom Tower became an emblem of the ideal of America as a democratic haven for those seeking freedom and opportunity. From 1962 to 1974, it served as the Cuban Assistance Center, a crucial help center for hundreds of thousands of Cuban refugees fleeing communism and political persecution. These immigrants would transform Miami. Following several decades of neglect, the Tower was rescued by Cuban American community leaders seeking to honor the Cuban legacy in Miami, who donated it to Miami Dade College in 2005. Currently, it is closed for renovations so do give them a call. read more

No visit to Miami would be complete without visiting or at least taking a picture of the Freedom Tower. This is what many Cubans see as the beacon of freedom and liberty from oppression and communist rule. What Ellis island was for many Europeans, the Freedom tower was for many Cubans. After doing a bit of research on this landmark, I wanted to share some of my findings.... The Miami Dade College's National Historic Landmark Freedom Tower has stood as an icon on the Downtown Miami skyline since 1925. A storied location with deep connections to Miami's Cuban American community, the Freedom Tower is home to the flagship Museum of Art and Design and MDC Special Collections, which include the Cuban Legacy Gallery, the Kislak Center, and the Exile Experience. The Freedom Tower also houses MDC's Cultural Affairs Department and the offices of the Miami Book Fair, the Miami Film Festival, and MDC Live Arts. Built in 1925 as a new home for the city's oldest newspaper and a grand architectural assertion of Miami's urban ambition, the Freedom Tower became an emblem of the ideal of America as a democratic haven for those seeking freedom and opportunity. From 1962 to 1974, it served as the Cuban Assistance Center, a crucial help center for hundreds of thousands of Cuban refugees fleeing communism and political persecution. These immigrants would transform Miami. Following several decades of neglect, the Tower was rescued by Cuban American community leaders seeking to honor the Cuban legacy in Miami, who donated it to Miami Dade College in 2005. Today is a beautiful architectural piece that adorns the skyline of Miami downtown. read more

Freedom Tower - Freedom tower. Now part of Dade Community college. - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Miami, Florida

I went for work to this place and it was simply amazing. First of all I love the idea that they had a parking next to this building for all of us that went to the event. Because that night there was a Miami Heat game and you can only imagine the amount of people and craziness going on on downtown. This building had a grade venue place for the event and we all had a wonderful time. The service was excellent and even though there were a lot of people I didn't feel over packed. read more

Freedom Tower - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Miami, Florida

Everyone drives past this iconic building which is situated right opposite the tourist Bayside area. Quite often it is lit up - ie red, white and blue for example. See my picture which was taken on the 4th of July showing this!! I have admired it from the outside and have been inside the foyer, but have not had the pleasure to climb to the top, but it is on my list of things to do surely do. Listed below is some information regarding it. Constructed in 1925 as a home for The Miami News, the Freedom Tower at Miami Dade College was modeled after the Giralda Cathedral Bell Tower in Seville, Spain. Striking in its architectural detail with its octagonal tower and richly ornamented facade, it remains one of South Florida's most distinctive historic buildings. Designated a National Historic Landmark in 2008, the building designed by George A. Fuller, Schultze & Weaver was donated by 600 Biscayne LLC and the Pedro Martin family. Most notably in its history, MDC's Freedom Tower was operated by the U.S. government as a reception center for Cuban refugees from 1962 to 1974. The building is significant because it represents the important story of the Cuban exodus to America and resettlement during the Cold War, reports the U.S. Department of the Interior, which has also called the Freedom Tower the "Ellis Island of the South." Though it operated in that capacity for only twelve years, the building has become an icon representing the faith that democracy brought to troubled lives, the generosity of the American people and a hopeful beginning that assured thousands a new life in a new land. read more

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This review is for the Cuban exhibition, "The Exile Experience: Journey to Freedom" which also includes Cuba out of Cuba: Through the lens of Alexis Rodriguez Duarte and Tico Torres. The Freedom Tower for me and and most Cuban Americans living in Miami is symbolic of the struggles of our cuban exile peoples, an Ellis Island or Statue of Liberty sort of speak. It was the first landmark our parents, grandparents, and other family members came into once upon arriving the short 90 min plane ride into the United States. The tower is preserved with its high ceilings and historical Spanish Renaissance architectural design. I knew that I would be emotional upon entering the building. The exhibit is located inside on the first floor, around the perimeter of the building. Imagery, photographs, and artifacts such as a suitcase, articles of clothing, and passport pictures are on display. Each with their own unique story to tell. A tale that is bittersweet. Sad to be leaving your country and all that you have known because of a new regime that you did not stand for and happy, excited, nervous, uncertain to be starting your lives, penniless in a foreign new country. All of these feelings were conveyed through the memorabilia in this exhibit as well as the stories of my parents and grandparents that I have heard throughout the years. I can relate closely because I am of Cuban descent and my mother, aunt, father, granparents, and uncle all came this way and all alone on different flights in the early 60's. I think we can all relate to a story of exile or immigration here in miami and in the United States. The exhibit is worth checking out. It's free, donations are accepted, and the other floors of the tower have modern art on display. read more

Freedom Tower - Cuban exile exhibit - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Miami, Florida

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Having lived in South Florida for over a decade and having driven by the Freedom Tower countless times, I honestly never quite knew its historical significance. Originally built as newspaper headquarters for The Miami Daily News, it was later used for Cuban refugees as a resource to assist them with beginning their new lives. On permanent loan are items from Cuban exiles which really touched my heart. To imagine having to leave your home, loved ones and your entire country with only a change of clothes and the shoes on your feet is overwhelming. The stories of Operation Peter-Pan was also an eye opener. The first two floors are open to visitors, admission is free and donations are welcome. Parking is convenient across the street for $5 and easy to access (unless a large event is taking place across the street). read more

The Freedom Tower is a building that many have seen coming off from a cruise ship or driven by countless times on your way to the beach. I admit, being a Miami native, I did not know the significance of it or frankly anything about the place. My adventure yesterday led me to get cultured on some Miami history that I wish more people took a interest in. The Freedom Tower was first built as newspaper headquarters for The Miami Daily News, but it's historical significance rises from the period between 1962-1974, when Cubans were exiled from their home during The Cold War making their way to the U.S. for a fresh start. The first two floors are open to visitors, admission is free and donations are welcome. The first floor gives you a historical perspective on what the Freedom Tower meant to so many coming here. As it's said before, it was the Ellis Island of the South. The second floor is split into two galleries, one gallery hosts more permanent pieces. I was surprised to see a piece by Salvador Dali and two pieces by Andy Warhol. The other had an exhibit by Sebastian Munoz, Swing Space Miami. Check online for any upcoming exhibit's, they rotate frequently. No, it's not a huge place to take up more than two hours of your time; but yes, it is worth a visit for the historical significance. read more

Came here for Instruments of Torture... that was probably my mistake. It was a lame exhibit that cost too much, whatever it cost. I forgot. But I do remember looking at the mannequins and noticing that their pubes were the same hairs used as the ones on their face. read more

Its a beautiful building which in itself deceives 5 stars ... now as far as the exhibition is concerned, it could use a lot more items, and donations where items, footage and images of the Chapters can be told. In addition it could use a weekly or monthly speaking engagement from someone who actually endured the struggle . Just like Holocaust survivors did and still do at some Jewish Memorial Museums. read more

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Great family event! Very inspiring instructors and activity.. Highly recommend. We took three beautiful pottery. read more

Freedom Tower - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Miami, Florida

Much of Miami's history was created within the walls of this building. Everyone has a tie in one shape or form to the purpose this tower has served its community. Most of the Cuban exiles landing on American soil were processed here in the 1960's which has made this building the first taste of freedom for much of those fleeing political instability in Cuba. It's been properly maintained throughout the years and now offers tours with integral facts on how it served as a beacon of hope for immigrants seeking the American dream. Plenty of events are hosted here for different purposes although the art exhibits are always my favorite to come check out. The vaulted ceilings and Spanish architecture perfectly come together in unison to offer a tidbit of when design and intent were prominently more appreciated. Parking in downtown varies on the time and day of your visit but there's plenty of garages nearby that will fix that problem rather easily. read more

Dear Freedom Tower, Thank you for allowing my parents and grandparents to come through your doors (in the 60s) and have the opportunity become US Citizens. They were scared and in a new country and you made it easier for them to acclimate. Without you, Freedom Tower, I would not be here today. That means the world to me. Now, you offer yourself as a museum and art gallery for the Miami Dade College! What an amazing use of your space and history. : ) We can only hope that they appreciate the view from your window panes as much as the Cuban citizens that relied on you for their first glimpse of freedom. Thank you for your wisdom, Sabrina* read more

You can't deny what the Freedom Tower symbolizes but why is the local population denied of a more detailed account of its history? I was here with my GF for the Mona Lisa exhibit. The exhibit seemed a bit contrived. It looked more like a senior high school project come to life. Thankfully, admission was free, but the exhibition took 30 minutes from my life that I'll never get back. But here's the real gripe: why don't they keep a continuous exhibit chronicling the history of the Freedom Tower and Cuban-Americans? Many locals lovingly refer to Freedom Tower as the Ellis Island of Miami. But the history of Ellis Island is very well documented whereas Freedom Tower houses a restricted archive. The moderators of Freedom Tower would be doing Miami residents a great service by curating a permanent daily exhibit. I'm sure if they put their heads together they could come up of something worthy of such an historic landmark. Freedom... read more

This landmark building located in the center of Miami is especially important to Cuban residents. During the 1960s, it was the processing center for nearly half a million Cuban refugees. Prior to its stint as a Cuban refugee center, the Freedom Tower housed the Miami News, but at present the building fills no special role except as a local landmark. Many current Cuban residents of Miami hope the edifice will be reincarnated as a Cuban-exile museum in the near future. Has this happened yet? read more

Freedom Tower - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Miami, Florida

The Freedom Tower is a historic building in Miami Florida, that is currently used as a contemporary art museum for Miami-Dade College. The building was designed by Schultze and Weaver and built in 1925, with the primary purpose of being the headquarters of The Miami News newspaper. It is built in the Mediterranean Revival style, inspired by the Giralda in Seville. Once the Miami News left the building, it became a headquarters for Cuban refugees coming to Miami during the 1960s-1970s. It became Miami's Ellis Island, a place where the federal government processed and documented the newcomers. In 1997, the building was purchased for US$4.1 million by Jorge Mas Canosa, who restored the tower and converted it into a monument for the refugees who fled to the United States from communist Cuba. Salsa legend Celia Cruz was memorialized at the Freedom Tower upon her death in 2003, with more than 200,000 turning out to show their respects. In 2005, developers donated the Freedom Tower to Miami-Dade College. On September 10, 1979, it was added to the U.S. National Register of Historic Places. It was designated a U.S. National Historic Landmark on October 6, 2008. The MDC Museum of Art + Design is on the second floor of the building and offers a wide range of exhibits, which are free and open to the public. The exhibits rotate, meaning that they have different exhibits every few months. Although the building is beautiful inside, it's a shame that the corridors are cordoned off, with a guard sitting in the lobby and supervising. There's supposed to be a beautiful mural in one of the corridors, but we're unable to see it. Also, the art is contemporary, something that may not appeal to all. All of these factors made me knock off a star, despite the fact that admission is free. Considering the vast history of this building, as well as the importance it played in the Cuban immigration to the U.S., I echo Nino R.'s sentiments and honestly feel the building should house an exhibit dedicated to the history of the building (maybe some photos/articles that came from the Miami News, biographies of some of the writers), and passport copies of the Cuban immigrants, photos of them standing in line, etc. My friend was disappointed to see nothing pertaining to the history of the building and the many purposes it served. Not even one of the rooms, there were just a few photos and footage of Cuba itself, but not of Cubans arriving to Miami. An art exhibit can be housed in any building, including a warehouse, but an exhibit on Cuban history would only seem fitting in a building that was actually a forefront of that movement, and what better building than the Freedom Tower? Because of this, I had to knock off another star. read more

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This is a cool little museum that is shows a small history of the Cuban immigration to Florida. There are also scattered paintings and abstract art around. Theres not much to see but enough to just go through quick and enjoy something for the hell of it. I suggest stopping by here with some friends for fun since it's free of charge with a donation to help if you'd like. Theres isn't much to do in downtown so coming here to the Freedom Tower is bullet point to stop in. read more

Really cool landmark, I lived in Miami for a few years and never knew about it. I ended up going here for this Medieval Torture gallery exhibit. It was really nice inside and well set up. They should do more stuff with this building though. I guess it belongs to Miami Dade College now but for how nice it is they need more then random exhibits in this building. read more

Freedom Tower - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Miami, Florida

simply gorgeous 1920s building with tons of history - when we saw it, it was bathed in red light. The Metro Mover stops right next to it. read more

Freedom Tower - Freedom Tower Miami - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Miami, Florida

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As close as Miami will get to having it's Ellis Island. The Freedom Tower was donated to Miami Dade College. And is now a really cool gallery. The Miami Dade College/New World BFA shows and other exhibits are hosted there. It's a beautiful building. read more

Freedom Tower is indeed Liberty Hall, with itss yet undocumented history told somewhere inside. It stood tall to welcome Cubans fleeing the arrival of Castro. And was the beacon for exiled art & culture when Celia Cruz died; her mourners came here for her wake. Sadly, there needs to be a concerted effort to give this history to the public. Hopefully, a proper museum will occupy the interior, For now, it's good to pass by simply to admire Freedom Tower's elegant silhouette where it reigns among the more modern skyscrapers. read more

Cool place to check out. Fun and educational for kids and adults. They do free events from galleries to arts and crafts for kids. Parking isn't terrible to find (there's a lot N of the bldg, usually $5 for the day when I go) read more

A very interesting historical site in downtown Miami! It's an classic building that stands out among all of the high-rise apartment buildings and hotels. The monorail stops right next to it. It's currently being used as a gallery and I went to see the "Instruments of Torture" exhibit that's showing through August 29, 2010. Definitely worth a visit, and if you get a chance to see that exhibit - do it! It's several rooms of horrifying tools and artwork about torture. I wished the exhibit had featured more on the current issues surrounding this issue, but it's largely historical. Still, very unique. read more

Super cool to check out of you like history. It's where all the Cubans had to check in when they got to America. My family is from Cuba so I was personally invested. The whole second floor was art made by Cuban-Americans. read more

Meh. Lol. It's a beautiful building on the outside! Right when you walk in, you're greeted by a dark information room/table/lobby lol and two staircases up to the exhibits. The exhibits themselves were pretty small and mostly just artifacts and films. There really wasn't much to look at. Unfortunately, there was a large room with a grand mural that was closed to the public. I believe you can also take an elevator up to some a community art studio but you can't really look around. Overall, I would prefer more things to look at. read more

Excellent exhibit. The first place my mother called home when she stepped off the plane close to 50 years ago. In the past it was called the Miami Daily News, the Ellis Island for Cubans, and now a Museum managed by MDC. read more

As driving around the city before our flight we saw this amazing building. The deco in South Miami is amazing and it would have been nice to see it up close. read more

This place is amazing! It is beautiful and the staff are so nice!! Do NOT listen to anything rude people write on here. This was built in 1925 and stands with the culture of the Cuban people inside. Everyone should go take a look at it! read more

What a shame the Miami Dade College withholds the Ponce De Leon Tequesta ''New World 1513 mural" from the Florida Viva 500 celebration this year. 2013. The tower was erected in 1925 by James M Cox for his Daily News organization. He wanted to make a monolith statement to the history of Juan Ponce De Leon's discovery of Florida and the Tequesta as the first know Native Americans. The mural was recently restored in 2008/9 with a Federal grant of $67,000.00 and yet no mention of the artists responsible for the recreated version in 1988. are displayed on the corner where one would expect to find credits, especially a museum/gallery. Up the stone stairs to the Grand hall the mural stretches across the back wall 40 ft long. This historical mural is a 1920's design, it was recreated by the Miami Artisans Group,Wade Foy,Wm. Coulthard, John Conroy, Ana Bikic, Suzie Lang, Gerome Birkensten. 2013 is the 25th Anniversary of it's making and celebrates 500 yrs of history made at the steps of the Tower. MDC needs to be more transparent. The tower is shut on Mondays and open with generally free admission. read more