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The
Hollywood Sign is an American
landmark and
cultural icon located in
Los Angeles, California. Situated on
Mount Lee, in the
Hollywood Hills area of the
Santa Monica Mountains, it overlooks the city's
Hollywood neighborhood. The sign was originally created in 1923 as an advertisement for a local
real estate development, but due to increasing recognition, the sign was left up. Frequently targeted for pranks and vandalism, it has undergone restoration several times, including the installation of a security system. Viewed from lower ground, the contours of the hills give the sign a wavy appearance; when viewed from the same height, the word "HOLLYWOOD" appears nearly straight. The sign is common in
popular culture, and signs of a similar style are frequently seen as parodies.Photograph:
Thomas Wolf