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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