In 1972, a year before its completion in 1973

In 1972, a year before its completion in 1973, the World Trade Center was rapidly rising into the skyline of New York City. This iconic photograph captures a powerful moment during its construction, revealing the immense scale and complexity of the project. At that stage, the Twin Towers were on their way to becoming the tallest buildings in the world, dominating Lower Manhattan and transforming the city’s architectural landscape.

The construction involved thousands of workers, engineers, and architects, all contributing to one of the most ambitious and innovative projects of its time. The Twin Towers, designed by architect Minoru Yamasaki in collaboration with Emery Roth & Sons, stood as enduring symbols of American progress and ambition, reflecting both the nation’s economic strength and its forward-looking vision for urban development.

When the World Trade Center was completed in 1973, it became a defining feature of New York’s skyline. The North Tower reached a height of 1,368 feet (417 meters), while the South Tower stood at 1,362 feet (415 meters), each with 110 floors. In the 1972 image, the towers are still under construction, yet the foundation of what would become a global icon is already visible.

This photograph captures the final push toward completion — the moment when innovation, engineering, and human determination came together to create one of the most recognizable landmarks in modern history. The World Trade Center not only marked the dawn of a new era in architectural and urban design, but also inspired the construction of skyscrapers around the world for decades to come.