United Nations Buildings, New York

The United Nations Headquarters in New York consists of four main buildings: the Secretariat, the General Assembly, Conference Area (including Council Chambers) and the Library. It cover an 18-acre tract between 42nd and 48th streets and First Avenue in New York City. The site of UN Headquarters is owned by the United Nations and it is an international territory.

An international team of architects developed the scheme, including Le Corbusier of France, Oscar Niemeyer of Brazil, Sven Markelius of Sweden and others. The Secretariat Building was constructed between 1949 and 1950. The General Assembly Hall was built in 1951.

United Nations buildings and Midtown Manhattan skyline seen from across East River. Photo: Michelle Rick/NYC & Company.

United Nations Buildings with East River in left background, about 1957. The General Assembly Hall can be seen in the center. Vintage postcard by Alfred Mainzer Inc.