Memorial and statue of theoretical physicist and Nobel Prize winner Albert Einstein
The Einstein Memorial is a 12-foot bronze statue of Albert Einstein on the grounds of the National Academy of Sciences. The figure of Einstein is shown casually sitting and contemplating the universe. The paper in Einstein’s left hand lists three equations representing his most important scientific works: the theory of general relativity, the photoelectric effect, and the equivalence of energy and matter. This last one, E = mc2, is Einstein’s most well-known formula. His signature is engraved at the bottom of the paper.
Adventurers are encouraged to climb on the statue, and you’ll often find children delightedly crawling all over the larger-than-life Einstein. The three-level bench the statue is seated on also makes this a great spot for a group photo. Look closely and you’ll see that Einstein’s nose is shiny from people rubbing it for good luck.
The statue’s sculptor, Robert Berks, has other works around DC, including a bust of John F. Kennedy at the Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts and the Mary McLeod Bethune Memorial in Lincoln Park (in Capitol Hill). One of the odd details about this memorial is the giant reproduction of Einstein’s sandaled feet, bronze toenails and all.
At the foot of the Einstein Memorial, the granite is spotted with metal studs. This is a star map representing planets, stars, and other astronomical objects accurately positioned as they were at the time of the memorial’s dedication – 12:00 pm on April 22, 1979. As a fun surprise, if you stand exactly in the middle of the star map, face Albert, and speak loudly, you will hear yourself echo.
In addition to his scientific achievements, Einstein was a refugee and supporter of civil rights who strongly opposed racism in the United States. His reaction as he fled Nazi Germany is engraved as one of three quotes on the back of the Einstein Memorial: “As long as I have any choice in the matter, I shall live only in a country where civil liberty, tolerance, and equality of all citizens before the law prevail.”
Although this is a small memorial, it is close to the National Mall and easy to stop by on your way to other adventures. I recommend checking it out and taking the obligatory selfie with Einstein.
Like this adventure? Subscribe to the newsletter to get updates with the latest adventures on the blog, ideas for things to do in DC, and tips for exploring the District.
Address
2101 Constitution Ave NW
Metro Station
- Foggy Bottom-GWU (OR, BL, SV)
Directions
The memorial is not always visible from the sidewalk. Walk up the steps or ramp towards the National Academy of Sciences; you will find Einstein in an elm and holly grove near the corner of 22nd and Constitution.
Cost
Free
Hours
Open 24 hours but best in the daylight
Length of Adventure
10 minutes
Website
http://www.nasonline.org/about-nas/visiting-nas/nas-building/the-einstein-memorial.html
