In the ruins of the World Trade Center now stands a Memorial to remember those who have died in the September 11 attack. The Memorial has the names of each one of these innocent persons who happened to be there doing their everyday work or just visiting. 

Amidst these ruins is also one unexpected survivor. Here it is:

Designed by Santiago Calatrava, the Oculus is the main building and within is this 4 billion transport hub called the World Trade Centre. As you can see in the picture above, it is an organic form rising amidst the various towers and the Memorial which stood on top of the September 11 debris.

The Oculus consists of white ribs interlocking high above the ground, looking like an eagle rising from the ashes. Inside is even more breath taking. Below is a view of the Oculus from the Memorial Fountain.

To go in, you must go to the Brookfield Place and from there go inside this 4 billion Station. As you go in, you immediately see the expanse and lightness of the building. You feel you are lifted up as you go inside and as you go up and have a view of the Station from the upper floor, the sight is astounding as you can see below.

Inside the Oculus is also the Westfield Trade Center where stores and restaurants offer retail. What we enjoyed most was having a light lunch of soup and sandwich in Epicerie Boulud, a cafe owned by the famous Michelin star restaurateur, Daniel Boulud.  

If you haven't been yet to the September, 2011 Memorial, then, you're in for a very enjoyable visit of the Memorial and the Oculus. 

Address: Church St, New York, NY 10006, USA