A life-sized bronze statue depicting the iconic urban myth of New York City's sewer alligators was unveiled in Union Square Park last week, attracting the attention of Queen Silvia of Sweden. Created by Swedish artist Alexander Klingspor, the statue portrays an alligator sitting on the inside of a manhole cover lid, surrounded by toxic waste and trash, as if it has just emerged from the depths of the sewer system. The artwork, named "N.Y.C Legend," is an homage to the century-old myth that the city's sewers are inhabited by alligators.

According to Union Square Partnership, the myth originated around 100 years ago when New Yorkers abandoned their pet alligators imported from Louisiana and Florida, after they grew too large to handle. Over the years, the story has been embellished and turned into tales of underground alligator gangs, which have been depicted in various films and TV shows. Mr. Klingspor collaborated with Molbrinks Gallery to create the piece and dedicated it to the resilience of both alligators and New Yorkers.

The sculpture not only serves as an entertaining urban legend but also symbolizes New York City's ability to adapt and survive. Alligators, known for their armor-like scales and regenerative abilities, have long been admired in ancient cultures. Mr. Klingspor, who has been living in Manhattan for over a decade, wanted to pay tribute to the city and explore the human inclination to create myths and legends, as well as the consequences of introducing invasive species to new environments.

The rumors of sewer-dwelling alligators date back to the 1930s, as evidenced by an article in The New York Times from 1935, which reported on a group of youths who discovered an alligator in a manhole and beat it to death. While it is currently illegal to own an alligator in New York state and city, there have been occasional incidents of escaped or abandoned alligators being found, including one in a Brooklyn pond earlier this year.

Officials hope that the artwork, displayed in Triangle Plaza of Union Square Park, will surprise and delight both New Yorkers and visitors. The sculpture showcases the timeless drive to find icons in nature and represents the bridge between ancient mythology and modern urban folklore. Union Square Partnership described it as a masterpiece that celebrates the resilience of both alligators and New Yorkers.

Anthony Perez, of New York City Parks, emphasized the significance of public art installations like this, stating that they celebrate the stories and spirit that make the city unique. The sculpture will be on display for eight months until June 2024, and there are hopes for its permanent installation following the exhibition period.