There are numerous exciting features and attractions at Atlantis, however one of the most compelling is the art, which is found at every turn: in landscape designs, paintings, color schemes, architecture and sculptures.

The art of Atlantis is as much a part its mystique as the Marine Habitat, the Aquaventure or the Mayan Temple. And of all the art found on Atlantis, the artistic hand of the sculptor seems to have left one of the most lasting impressions.

Because the stunning public sculptures seem synonymous with Atlantis' theme, on this trip, that is where we will aim our focus.

The Architectural Sculptures

There are six residential towers and a resort at Atlantis that range from the Beach Towers, which is the oldest, to The Cove, the newest. The most lavish accommodations are found at The Royal Towers, which includes:

• The Great Hall of Waters

  Located off the lobby of The Royal Towers The Great Hall of Waters is characterized mainly by... water. An aquarium wraps around a part of the area; there are pools; and gushing fountains that soar up several stories.

• The Dig

  The famous aquarium is partly located on the lower level of the Great Hall of Waters and underneath the Royal Towers lobby. Connecting passageways and chambers wend through what are the simulated ruins of the city of Atlantis. Approximately 20,000 deep reef fish swim on both sides of the passage, and in certain areas, they swim in the waters above the heads of visitors.

• The Casino

  Lavishly designed as buildings representing a Mayan Temple of the Sun and a Temple of the Moon, all set to the music of about 1,000 clanging slot machines.

• The Bridge Suite

  Located in the connecting bridge of The Royal Towers this suite rents for $25,000 per night, requires a 4-night stay, and has a five year waiting list.

Aside from the sculpted pieces designed and built around and even into the architecture, The Royal Towers, when viewed from a distance, might be said to resemble a gorgeous sculpture.

The Royal Towers in Early Evening Light

And then, there are the massive doors opening onto the lobby of The Royal Towers with its bas relief figures and symbols.

Entrance Doors to The Royal Towers

The entire Royal Towers lobby is an unbelievable work of art. From the paintings to the sculpted posts, and a gold scalloped ceiling, there's a continuation of the marine theme.

The Royal Towers Lobby

Sculptures such as Sea Horses, the Dolphins and other sea creatures represent a marine life theme frequently and beautifully repeated in the architecture and almost every aspect of the property.

Sea Horse Sculpture

Twin Dolphins

The Casino

This is the only casino in the world built above a body of water. The lavish and elegant gaming area is designed around replicas of two Mayan temples representing a Temple of the Sun and a Temple of the Moon. The towering glass sun and moon radiate from atop the temples, which stands at key locations in the casino. A third piece, Crystal Gate stands impressively at the casino's entrance.

One of the world's greatest glass blowers, Dale Chihuly was commissioned to lead the team that crafted these massive and magnificent sculptures. The sculptures were commissioned at one million dollars each. Later, Chihuly would add a fourth piece, the Atlantis chandelier.

• Temple of the Sun

  More than 2,300 red, yellow, and orange elements radiates like a fiery sun.

• Temple of the Moon

  Cobalt blue and opalescent white glass globe glows as the light of a rising moon.

• Crystal Gate

  A tower of glittering crystal that rises 20 feet into the air welcomes visitors to the casino.

• Atlantis Chandelier

  An elegant chandelier in shades of gold, silver and amethyst displaying a wild array of glass that suggests figures of jellyfish, anemones, tentacles of squid , seaweed and more.

Temple of the Moon

Temple of the Sun

Dragon Statue at entrance to Dragon's Disco in casino

These are just a fraction of the many interesting and beautiful public sculptures that grace Atlantis. Not included are the sculpted fountains, and the many additional pieces located around the property. Next trip, a look at the incredible fountains of Atlantis.