1. Salamander Symbols in the Lobby
In the Woolworth Building lobby, if you look closely at the decorative detail of the gilded mailbox, you will find carvings of salamanders slithering through the vines up the sides. In folklore, these lizard-like amphibians are believed to be fireproof and can even put out fires with their cold bodies and saliva. These real life creatures with mythical powers were woven into the design of the Woolworth’s ornate lobby reliefs to symbolize the building’s fireproof construction.
Next, check out Daily What?! The Safety Deposit Graveyard and Bank Vault in The Woolworth Building
