Washington Monument reopens after renovations (13 images)

The landmark Washington Monument in Washington, D.C. reopens to visitors on September 19, 2019 after being closed for renovations for three years. The 555-foot tall monument to George Washington had been closed since August 2016 so crews could update the elevators and upgrade security.

The marble and granite monument is one of the United States' most recognizable landmarks. When it opened in 1888, it was the tallest structure in the world -- a distinction it held for about a year before it was surpassed by the Eiffel Tower in Paris. Photo by Kevin Dietsch/UPI

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The monument is named for the nation's first president, George Washington. It suffered earthquake damage in 2011. Photo by Kevin Dietsch/UPI

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A park ranger walks on the plaza on reopening day. Photo by Kevin Dietsch/UPI

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A park rangers wears a George Washington wig to the reopening. Photo by Kevin Dietsch/UPI

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