The southernmost tip of Manhattan is most commonly referred to as Lower Manhattan or Downtown Manhattan. Within this broader area, the specific point at the very edge is known as The Battery (formerly Battery Park). This historic district is the oldest part of the city, where New York was originally founded as New Amsterdam. It serves as the global heart of finance, housing the Financial District (FiDi) and the New York Stock Exchange. Beyond the skyscrapers, it is a hub for transit and tourism, acting as the primary departure point for ferries to the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island. The area is characterized by narrow, winding streets that pre-date the 1811 grid plan used in the rest of the island. In recent decades, especially following the rebuilding after 9/11, it has transformed from a strictly business-oriented district into a vibrant residential neighborhood with high-end dining, the scenic Hudson River Park, and the iconic One World Trade Center, making it a "must-visit" for anyone wanting to see where the story of New York City truly began.