The theme for this third collection, consisting of Brasilia, Melbourne, New York, and St. Petersburg, is Capital Migration. Three of the new cities were at one time the seat of government; one became its nation’s capital in 1960. All remain centers of economic power, cultural leaders, and symbols of their country’s national identity.

 

Capital of the U.S. until 1790, New York long ago cemented its reputation as the 'Capital of the World'. Its huge global influence on finance, trade, politics, and culture has been felt for more than a century, and it is seen around the world as the symbol of the American Dream. It is the most densely populated city on the globe. This fact alone gives New York its absolutely unique urban form. New York was first settled in Lower Manhattan, which accounts for the Old World European layout of downtown (in white). The entire island and parts of Brooklyn are dotted with historic landmarks and civic buildings (in red), including the United Nations building, Grand Central, Radio City Music Hall, Madison Square Garden and the World Trade Center Memorial.