Reflecting Absence

memorial, New York City, New York

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July 17, 2026

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"Reflecting Absence" is the name of the memorial at the site of the former World Trade Center in New York City. It honors the victims of the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks and the 1993 World Trade Center bombing. Designed by Michael Arad and Peter Walker, the memorial opened on September 11, 2011.

The memorial's focal points are two nearly acre-sized reflecting pools that occupy the footprints of the original Twin Towers. These pools are set 30 feet below ground and feature the largest manufactured waterfalls in North America. Bronze panels around the pools are inscribed with the names of the nearly 3,000 victims. The memorial plaza includes over 400 trees, including the "Survivor Tree," which was recovered from the rubble. Adjacent to the memorial is the September 11 Museum.12

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World Trade Center
Called “Reflecting Absence,” it consisted of two pools (one in each tower’s footprint void) surrounded by trees and by walls containing the names of the victims. The memorial opened to the public on September 12, 2011.
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Called “Reflecting Absence,” it consisted of two pools (one in each tower’s footprint void) surrounded by trees and by walls containing the names of the victims. The memorial opened to the public on September 12, 2011.
Read More