Did You Know Kentucky is Home to the World’s Largest Free-Swinging Bell?
Look! There's no question that the Liberty Bell, which is located in downtown Philadelphia, is the most famous bell in the United States. That bell, which is a key symbol of our country's fight for independence, is iconic. It's legendary not just because of what it stands and 'rings' for, but also for its signature crack that "runs from the upper third of the bell all the way down to its bottom."
The bell was rung in 1776 to herald the first ever public reading of the Declaration of Independence.
Though it's officially been 'retired' and no longer rings, the "massive" bell is a core part of American history. It certainly inspires awe with its bigger-than-life story, but it's not a bigger-than-life bell. It clocks in at a mere 2,080 pounds. That Pennsylvania bell, in terms of weight, doesn't even hold a candle to what we're sporting here in Kentucky.
The world's largest free-swinging bell is actually located right here in the Commonwealth. The World Peace Bell, in Newport, was installed twenty-five years ago and is 12-feet tall and weighs an astounding 66,000 pounds. Now, THAT sounds "massive," right? Well, it is.
The World Peace Bell is big. It's loud. It's awesome!

You can tell in that video just how loud the bell is. According to the Peace Bell Foundation, when Newport's bell was being built, nearby neighbors expressed concern that their windows were going to be blown out, shattered by it. Luckily, that didn't happen.
Today, the World Peace Bell remains a popular attraction for tourists and locals. It's inscribed with the following: “The World Peace Bell is a Symbol of Freedom and Peace. Honoring Our Past, Celebrating Our Present and Inspiring Our Future”.
To see more and learn more about popular peace bells around the world, CLICK HERE!
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Gallery Credit: Stacker
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