Humans have been creating since prehistory for several reasons and in all sizes. Monuments refer to buildings or structures that represent important architectural and/or cultural heritage Each one is steeped in fascinating history and has a different story related to it. The monuments are iconic pieces of art and architecture and important destinations for travelers.
The monuments give us a sense of the place, its ancient culture, and traditions. There is a different kind of monuments including cultural heritage, historical, architectural or technical, political, and many more. These famous symbols possess special natural or cultural significance for the globe. Here is the list of the world’s most influential and famous monuments the world.
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1. The Colosseum
Originally known as Flavian Amphitheater, it is situated in the heart of Rome in Italy. One of the largest amphitheaters in the world that can accommodate up to 50,000 people. The Colosseum was a famous ground for gladiator fights and public spectacles such as animal hunts, battles with bulls etc. Built by Emperor Vespasian between 70 to 72 CE, it was completed by his son, Titus in 80 CE.
An oval-shaped amphitheater that accounts for a huge number of heritage tours in the world. It is a massive ellipse that is 188 metres long and 156 metres wide. The main symbol of Rome highlights the rich heritage of Rome. Well known as the Roman Colosseum is one of the capital’s most famous monuments.
2. Great Wall of China
One of the famous UNESCO World Heritage sites, The Great Wall of China is a series of walls and fortifications of ancient times. It is more than 13,000 miles in length and is located in northern China.
Also known as the main symbol of China as it highlights its ancient and vivid history. The construction of the Great Wall was originally conceived by the first Chinese Emperor Qin Shi Huang in the third century B.C. But the best-preserved part of the Great Wall was built in the 14th through 17th centuries A.D., during the Ming dynasty. The enormous fortification was raised to protect the territory from foreign invasions. The site attracts almost 10 million tourists every year. One of the world’s greatest feats of engineering stands tall as the symbol of Chinese strength and power.
3. Pyramids of Giza
One of the most discussed structures in the history of Egypt’s ancient kingdom was constructed about 4,500 years ago. The defining symbol of Egypt is located on the Giza plateau near the city of Cairo The three primary pyramids on the Giza plateau were built over three generations by the rulers Khufu, Khafre and Menkaure. The mind-blogging perfection represents the royalty of Egyptian Emperors. The West Bank of the River Nile is home to the world’s most iconic monuments, the great pyramids of Giza. The pyramids housed the bodies of pharaohs. One of the finest examples of miracles in the history of human architecture.
4. Taj Mahal
A treat to watch is one of the most beautiful monuments in the world. Also known as the ‘ crown of the palaces’, it was built in the first half of the seventeenth century on the banks of the Yamuna River (India) by the emperor Shah Jahan in 1632 for his beloved wife Mumtaz Mahal. The place includes a large mosque, a guest house, and extensive gardens. Taj Mahal is also well recognized as the ‘Jewel of Islamic Art’ due to its detailed aesthetics, intricate carvings, and striking beauty. It is a blend of Indian, Islamic, and Persian architectural styles. Shah Jahan hired top artisans including painters, carvers, calligraphers, in-layers, etc. from India, Persia, and other regions to create this historic beauty.
It is one of the most visited monuments in the world. The elegant marble mausoleum grabs the attention of tourists. The Taj Mahal is also one of the seven wonders of the world. It is rightly called ‘The Pride of India’.
5. Leaning tower of Pisa
It is famous as La Torre Pendente’ in Italian. The Leaning Tower of Pisa is the bell tower of the cathedral in the city of Pisa in Italy. Well known for its unintended tilt, its construction work started in 1173 and took about 200 years to build. The four towers of Pisa together create the cathedral complex which is known as Piazza Dei Miracoli or Campo Dei Miracoli translates to ‘Field of Miracles.
It is one of the most remarkable definitions of emblematic Roman architecture and serves as one of the most popular tourist attractions in Italy. The 8-storey tower also has a chamber for the bells and reached a height of 60 m. It is said that this tower was originally designed by the Italian architect Bonnano Pisano.
The tilting started after 5 years in 1173. The tilt was noticed by workers when the third floor was completed in 1178 and it began to lean. The Tower leans at ya 10-degree angle. It was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, together with the entire Piazza Del Duo-mo in 1987. The tower has survived world war 2 and is still standing which makes it a mysterious treat for the travelers to watch. It is the smallest tower to achieve world recognition.
6. Eiffel Tower
One of the most beautiful and famous architectural landmarks of France. It was c constructed in 1889 to commemorate the centennial of the French Revolution and to showcase France’s industrial powers before the world. One of the most recognizable monuments in the world is located in the capital city, Paris. The credit for designing the tower goes to a French civil engineer Gustave Eiffel, the tower was named after him.
Also known as “La dame de for” or the “iron lady” attracts millions of tourists every year. It stands tall showcasing its colorful and vibrant history, it was built to celebrate the century of the French Revolution.
The tower has 108 storeys and is 1,063 feet (324 meters) tall. The tower is called the beauty of Paris and sparkles the eye of the travelers visiting it. It is one of the finest symbols of remarkable modern architecture made of iron.
7. Statue of Liberty
A symbol of freedom and democracy across the world is situated in New York City on Liberty Island. It was gifted to America from France to commemorate the American Declaration of Independence. It was inaugurated in 1886 to celebrate freedom and democracy. The statue symbolises equality and the end of all types of servitude and oppression. It was designated as a National Monument in 1924. It’s appropriately called “Liberty Enlightening the World”. Seven rays in the crown of the Roman goddess represent the Earth’s seven seas. The statue represents the remarkable and strong history of America.
8. Golden Temple
Also known as Sri Harmandir Sahib is located in Amritsar, Punjab. It is the central religious place for the Sikhs. The shape of the Gurudwara and its architecture highlight the beauty and purity of the religion. The holy place stands as the nation’s pride.
At first, the Golden Temple was built by Guru Arjan Dev Ji (the 5th Sikh Guru) in 1604. It was rebuilt with marble and copper in 1809 by Maharaja Ranjit Singh. This religious place was later covered in gold leaf in 1830, from where it got its name.
Well known for its golden dome and appearance, the beauty of this place mesmerizes the pilgrims. It represents human brotherhood and equality. Everyone irrespective of caste, creed, religion or race can seek spiritual solace and religious fulfillment without any hindrance. The magnificent temple highlights the glory and heritage of the Sikhs.
9. Borobudur Temple
The world’s biggest Buddhist monument is located on the island of Java. It was built in the 9th century during the reign of the Syailendra dynasty. The design of the temple in Gupta architecture represents India’s influence on the region. The temple reflects exquisite architecture that includes five square terraces and three circular platforms. This historic monument is famous as a pilgrimage among Buddhists visited by a large number of monks and travellers from across the world.
One of the largest Buddhist monuments in the whole world stuns visitors with its captivating design and enchanting natural scenery.
10. Chichen Itza
One of the most significant city-states in pre-Hispanic America, Chichen Itza is one of the most visited archaeological sites in Mexico today. Chichen Itza is one of the New 7 Wonders of The World according to UNESCO, since July 7th, 2007. The ancient city is located in the state of Yucatan, eastern Mexico.
The Mayan city is home to myriad architectural marvels that are more than 1500 years old. There are many breathtaking monuments in the sprawling city of Chichen Itza such as the Ball court, Rotund observatory, and Temple of Warriors. The city represents a wide range of historic stories and hidden secrets for its visitors.
