A "masterpiece" sculpture has been unveiled in New York City paying homage to certainly one of its most well-known city legends - alligators residing within the sewers.

The public artwork set up includes a life-sized alligator on the again of a manhole cowl and attracts inspiration from what organisers known as a "century-old myth".

Legend suggests New Yorkers as soon as deserted child alligators after they turned too massive to maintain as pets - with the story evolving into "tales of subterranean monsters" residing within the "underbelly" of town, officers stated.

The bronze sculpture, known as NYC Legend, was unveiled in Union Square Park by Swedish artist Alexander Klingspor and pays tribute to "New York City's enduring capacity to adapt and survive" - a top quality "embodied by the alligator".

Community organisation Union Square Partnership stated the work was "inspired by the resilience of both alligators and New Yorkers" and the "magnificent" sculpture merges historic mythological symbolism with fashionable city folklore.

Mr Klingspor stated: "Stories are the very backbone of human civilisation giving shape to our shared consciousness through sculptures, paintings, and architecture.

"This piece is a testomony to our timeless drive to search out icons in nature, and to the bridge that fantasy builds between the traditional and fashionable that also echoes at present."

Anthony Perez, of New York City Parks, stated: "This sculpture is a beautiful representation of our enduring resilience as New Yorkers, and embodies one of the most famous urban legends about our city.

"Public artwork installations like this are one of many some ways we use our public parks to rejoice the tales and spirit that make our metropolis so distinctive.

"I'm so excited to see this sculpture take its place in iconic Union Square Park, where I'm sure it will surprise and delight both New Yorkers and visitors."

Read extra on Sky News:Why we're likely to see more storms like BabetWho is responsible for bed bugs in rented homes?

The sculpture in certainly one of Manhattan's hottest locations will probably be on show for eight months till June 2024.

Joseph Douek, a member of the NYC Planning Commission, stated: "We take great pride in showcasing Klingspor's masterpiece and are hopeful for its permanent installation following the exhibition period."