Landmarks are what places are known for; many people identify a country or city based on its landmarks. Many times, these landmarks are associated with the history and culture of the place.
Almost all countries in the world have famous landmarks. While some are not known worldwide, others are quite popular due to tourism. Here we present 10 famous landmarks in the world that one should try visiting during one’s lifetime.
Great Wall of China, China
Measuring 21,196 km, the Great Wall of China is the world’s longest structure. Snaking along the coast of China, the Great Wall of China is almost 2000 years old and is made up of numerous segments, made by different emperors.
The construction of the structure was done using bricks, stones, woods, damp earth, etc. However, the wall that awes people all around the world has a tragic history. More than 1 million people died during its construction. Still, this wonder of the world is a must-see during your visit to China.
Eiffel Tower, Paris, France
The Eiffel Tower is synonymous with Paris and is one of the main reasons for people visiting the city of love. Measuring 324 meters, the Eiffel Tower was built in 1889 and was the tallest tower in the world for the next 41 years.
Apart from admiring the tower from outside, you can take the lift (or the steps; there are 704)) to visit the second floor or go for the top viewing deck to see the gorgeous, panoramic view of the city.
Statue of Liberty, New York, USA
The Statue of Liberty is undoubtedly the most famous landmark in the world. Situated in New York’s Manhattan, the Statue of Liberty represents the Roman Goddess of Freedom. The Statue of Liberty was a gift from France to the USA and venerates American independence.
A connection between the Eiffel Tower and the Statue of Liberty is that both were designed by the same person, Alexandre Gustave Eiffel. Although the copper statue has turned green due to oxidation, the Statue of Liberty still retains its majestic appearance.
Sydney Opera House, Sydney, Australia
Located in the biggest city of Australia, Sydney, is the most famous icon of the country, the Sydney Opera House. The construction of this UNESCO World Heritage Site took almost 15 years and the place opened in 1973.
One of the things that make the opera house so famous is its white roof that resembles sails or shells. Designed by Danish architect Jorn Utzon, the Sydney Opera House is home to a huge concert hall, playhouse, studio, drama theatre, and forecourt.
Stonehenge, England
Perhaps one of the most mysterious landmarks in the world is Stonehenge in England. Located in Salisbury, Sailsbury is believed to have been built somewhere between 3000 BC and 2000 BC. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Stonehenge includes hundreds of burial mounds.
But what stands out here are the numerous standing stones. These stones are basically blue stones and sarsen. One of the highlights of the place is that the stores are aligned with the midwinter and midsummer sunsets.
Taj Mahal, Agra, India
One of the seven wonders of the world, the Taj Mahal is not just a monument for Indians but a symbol of love. Located on the banks of the Yamuna River, the Taj Mahal was built by Emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his beloved wife Mumtaz Mahal.
It is a mausoleum where the remains of Shah Jahan and Mumtaz Mahal rest today. Constructed using Turkish, Indian, Mughal, Islamic, and Persian architectural styles, the Taj Mahal has enthralled people around the world for centuries.
Pyramids of Giza, Egypt
An ancient wonder of the world, the Pyramids of Giza in Egypt are magnificent structures that you would ever see. What makes them even more awe-worth is that they were built during a time when manual labor was the only form of labor in the world.
Constructed somewhere during 200 B.C, the Pyramids of Giza are the tombs of ancient Egyptian Kings. While there are other pyramids in Egypt, nothing matches the majesty of the Pyramids of Giza.
Christ the Redeemer, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
Standing 98 feet tall on top of Mount Corcovado, Christ the Redeemer is one of the most awe-inducing structures you would ever see. The image of Christ looking over the city with his arms wide open as if in benediction would not fail to impress you.
While the adventurous can trek to the top of the mountain, others can take the scenic tram ride that winds up through the mountain. While you may not be able to take your eyes away from the statue of Christ, take this opportunity to get an aerial view of the entire city of Rio de Janerio.
Machu Picchu, Peru
A Peruvian Historical Sanctuary and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Machu Picchu is one of the most famous historical monuments of the world. Located in the Andes, Machu Picchu is situated high up on the mountains, 2400 meters high above sea level. Also known as the Lost City of Incas, Machu Picchu reflects the engineering geniuses of the Incan empire.
Built in the 14th century, the place was evacuated a century later during the Spanish Conquest. However, the place was discovered only in 1911 by Hiram Bingham, an American historian. Machu Picchu is also one of the seven wonders of the world.
Angkor Wat, Cambodia
Spread around an area of 500 acres, the Angkor Wat is considered to be the largest temple complex in the world. Originally built for the Hindu God Vishnu, the temple was converted into a Buddhist temple by the end of the 12th century.
While the temple and the city’s outer walls were made of sandstone, the other structures were made of wood and other less durable things. Although the temple is no longer used, thousands of tourists arrive in Cambodia to witness the magnificent beauty and amazing architecture of the place.
Conclusion
This is just a gist of the famous landmarks of the world. Few others include the Colosseum in Rome, the Empire State Building in New York, the Basilica of the Sagrada Familia in Barcelona, etc.
These structures or monuments are the symbols of what human beings have achieved several centuries ago. So, do make it a point to visit at least a few during your annual holidays.
Author’s Bio: This article ‘Famous Landmarks in the World’ written by Kabir. He is a content writer with over 5 years of experience. He likes cricket and plays football at the state level in his free time. Some of his favorite travel activities are going on a desert safari Dubai, paragliding in the mountains, and knowing the history of places he travels too. He loves traveling and is an adventure enthusiast.