The Marriott World Trade Center, also known as WTC 3 or the Visa Hotel, was a 22-story hotel located within the World Trade Center complex in lower Manhattan. Opening in 1981, it was the first major hotel to open in the area since 1836. However, its history was marred by significant damage during the 1993 World Trade Center bombing, leading to its closure until 1994. Tragically, the hotel was later destroyed in the 9/11 attacks when the South Tower collapsed, causing catastrophic damage. Despite its historical significance, the hotel was never replaced as part of the new World Trade Center complex. Although the Marriott sustained minimal damage from the impact of the planes, landing gear from both aircraft fell onto its roof. If the Twin Towers had remained standing, the hotel likely would have continued operating, but it is speculated that a controlled demolition would have been necessary regardless. Surviving the initial collapse, a small section of the hotel was eventually dismantled, and 14 people lost their lives within its walls.
History of the Marriott World Trade Center Hotel
The Marriott World Trade Center Hotel, also known as World Trade Center 3 or WTC 3, was a prominent 22-story, 825-room hotel located within the World Trade Center complex in the Financial District of lower Manhattan, New York City. It opened its doors in April 1981 as the Visa International Hotel and was the first major hotel to open in lower Manhattan since 1836. Over the years, it became known as the Visa Hotel and eventually as the Marriott Hotel after its purchase by Marriott Hotel and Resorts in 1995.
Opening of the hotel in 1981
The Marriott World Trade Center Hotel officially opened its doors on April 1, 1981, as the Visa International Hotel. It had 825 rooms available for guests and was fully finished in July of the same year. However, shortly after its grand opening, a fire broke out on the seventh floor during the 1993 World Trade Center bombing. Despite the significant damage, the hotel underwent extensive repairs and was reopened a year and a half later in late 1994.
Damage during the 1993 World Trade Center bombing
During the 1993 World Trade Center bombing, the Marriott World Trade Center Hotel suffered significant damage. The explosion caused extensive structural damage to the building, leading to its closure. The hotel remained closed until 1994 while repairs were undertaken to restore it to its former state.
Reopening of the hotel in 1994
After undergoing substantial repairs, the Marriott World Trade Center Hotel finally reopened its doors in late 1994. It was met with great anticipation from both locals and visitors who relied on the hotel’s convenient location in lower Manhattan. The reopening marked a significant milestone in the hotel’s history and allowed it to resume serving guests from all over the world.
Purchase by Marriott Hotel and Resorts in 1995
In 1995, Marriott Hotel and Resorts purchased the hotel, leading to its name change to the Marriott World Trade Center Hotel. This acquisition further solidified the hotel’s position as a renowned establishment within the hospitality industry. The Marriott brand brought its extensive experience and expertise to enhance the hotel’s operations and provide exceptional service to its guests.
Marriott Hotel and the 9/11 Attacks
The Marriott World Trade Center Hotel played a tragic role in the events of September 11, 2001. The hotel was located directly under the Twin Towers, making it susceptible to the significant damage caused by the attacks.
Damage caused by the South Tower collapse
During the 9/11 attacks, the Marriott Hotel was mainly affected by the collapse of the South Tower, the first tower to fall. The catastrophic collapse of the South Tower caused substantial damage to the Marriott Hotel, splitting it in half. The impact was so severe that around 97 percent of the hotel was ultimately destroyed.
Effect of both planes hitting the towers on the hotel
Although the Marriott Hotel did suffer some minor damage from the impact of both planes hitting the Twin Towers, it remained relatively intact. Remarkably, landing gear from both planes fell onto the roof of the Marriott Hotel immediately after the collisions. However, the hotel itself sustained minimal damage compared to the devastating destruction of the Towers. If the Twin Towers had remained upright, it is likely that the Marriott Hotel would have continued operating without major disruptions.
Survival of the Marriott Hotel if the towers remained upright
In a hypothetical scenario where both Twin Towers remained intact, the Marriott Hotel would have had a chance to continue operating smoothly. However, it is speculated that even in such a case, there would have been a need for controlled demolition of the damaged towers. This controlled demolition might have impacted the hotel’s operations and potentially led to its removal to accommodate the redevelopment plans for the World Trade Center complex.
Survivor Stories
Despite the immense destruction and loss of life, there were remarkable stories of survival within the Marriott Hotel during the 9/11 attacks.
Evacuation of the partially destroyed hotel
Following the initial collapse of the South Tower, a group of individuals within the partially destroyed Marriott Hotel managed to evacuate to safety. It was a harrowing escape, given the chaotic and dangerous circumstances surrounding them. Those who were able to make their way out of the hotel after the first collapse faced unimaginable challenges, but their tenacity and resilience allowed them to survive.
Survival of 14 individuals in a small section of the hotel
Incredibly, a small section of the Marriott Hotel managed to withstand the collapse of the Twin Towers. Upgraded after the 1993 bombing, this section of the hotel contained a few rooms that still had intact ceilings. Despite being located amidst the debris and destruction of the collapsed Towers, 14 people were able to survive in this remarkable area of the hotel. Their survival is a testament to the strength and durability of the structure, as well as their own resourcefulness and courage.
Flag raised by firefighters on the remaining section of the hotel
On the afternoon of September 11, 2001, firefighters raised an American flag on the small section of the Marriott Hotel that remained standing. This powerful symbol of resilience and defiance serves as a reminder of the heroic efforts made by first responders and the unbreakable spirit that emerged from the tragedy.
Demolition of the Hotel
In January 2002, the decision was made to completely dismantle the Marriott World Trade Center Hotel due to its irreversible damage from the collapse of the Twin Towers. Efforts were made to document the hotel’s tragic fate, and it has since been featured in various documentaries about the 9/11 attacks. The demolition of the hotel marked the end of an era and a painful reminder of the loss experienced on that fateful day.
Conclusion
The Marriott World Trade Center Hotel’s history encompasses both triumph and tragedy. From its grand opening in 1981 to its closure and repairs after the 1993 World Trade Center bombing, the hotel served as a symbol of resilience and renewal. However, its ultimate destruction during the 9/11 attacks highlighted the devastating consequences of terrorism. The Marriott Hotel may be gone, but the stories of survival and the enduring spirit of those affected by the tragedy will forever live on.