In brief
Washington DC’s iconic horse statues flanking the Lincoln Memorial were recently crowned in 23‑karat gold by the Trump administration, a $5.1 million restoration that has ignited a spirited debate among locals and tourists alike. The gilding, which cost more than the average annual federal budget for the memorial, has drawn both admiration for its artistic flair and criticism for its expense and historical authenticity. Visitors to the monument were polled by BBC reporters, with many praising the dazzling new look and others questioning the necessity of such a costly refurbishment. The renovation underscores a broader trend of high‑profile, upscale monument projects that remember both the past and the present.
The two horse statues that guard the pedestal of Washington’s Lincoln Memorial, popularly known as the Arts of War, were recently relit with 23‑karat gold by the Trump administration. The gilding project, billed as a tribute to the nation’s military heritage, cost a reported $5.1 million according to federal requisition filings.
When the newly policed surface burst into a warm, metallic sheen, the monument’s regular visitors and casual onlookers stopped to stare. BBC reporters walked the lawn and asked the public, “What do you think of the $5 million renovation?” Hundreds of people answered in a mix of enthusiasm and skepticism.
Some applauded the gleaming horses, calling the gold finish a stunning homage to the patriotic spirit the statues were meant to celebrate. Others felt the money could be better spent elsewhere, pointing to other neglected monuments that also deserve attention.
The video footage, shot by Meiying Wu and shared by the BBC, offers a live glimpse of the debate. The timing of the unveiling coincides with a renewed focus on monument conservation and popular tourism strategies in Washington DC.
Whether the gold will inspire a new wave of monument upgrades or serve as a cautionary tale against budget overruns remains to be seen. For now, the shining horses continue to capture the eye and stir conversation across the nation’s capital.
