20 Amazing Buildings From Around The World That You Need To Visit

1. The Colosseum - Rome, Italy

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This ancient Roman amphitheater, completed in AD 80, once hosted gladiator contests, animal hunts, and other public spectacles. Its elliptical shape and tiered seating could accommodate over 50,000 spectators, showcasing the architectural ingenuity of the Roman Empire.

2. The Taj Mahal - India

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Built between 1631 and 1648, the Taj Mahal is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most stunning examples of Mughal architecture. Crafted from white marble, it stands as a symbol of eternal love, commissioned by Emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his beloved wife Mumtaz Mahal.

3. The Eiffel Tower - Paris, France

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Designed by Gustave Eiffel for the 1889 Paris Exposition Universelle, the Eiffel Tower initially faced criticism but has since become an enduring symbol of Paris and France. Its intricate iron lattice design and towering height of 1,063 feet attract millions of visitors annually.

4. The Burj Khalifa - Dubai

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Standing at a staggering 2,717 feet, the Burj Khalifa is the world's tallest building, dominating Dubai's skyline. Its sleek, modern design incorporates elements of Islamic architecture and cutting-edge engineering, reflecting Dubai's ambition and innovation.

5. The Sydney Opera House - Australia

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Designed by Danish architect Jørn Utzon and opened in 1973, the Sydney Opera House is celebrated for its distinctive sail-like shells and waterfront location. It serves as a premier performing arts venue, hosting concerts, opera, theater, and other cultural events.

6. The Great Wall of China - China

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Constructed over centuries by various Chinese dynasties, the Great Wall of China stretches across northern China, symbolizing defense and unity. Its formidable structure and strategic significance make it one of the world's most iconic architectural marvels.

7. The Sagrada Familia - Barcelona, Spain

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Antoni Gaudí's magnum opus, the Sagrada Familia is a basilica in Barcelona renowned for its organic forms, intricate sculptures, and vibrant stained glass windows. Construction began in 1882 and continues today, embodying Gaudí's visionary genius and Catalonia's cultural heritage.

8. The Parthenon, Athens, Greece

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Built in the 5th century BC, the Parthenon is a Doric temple dedicated to the goddess Athena, patroness of Athens. Its architectural perfection and decorative sculptures exemplify the Golden Age of Athens and the ideals of classical Greek civilization.

9. The Chrysler Building - New York City

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Completed in 1930, the Chrysler Building is an Art Deco masterpiece in New York City, characterized by its gleaming stainless steel spire and distinctive crown adorned with gargoyles and geometric motifs. It remains an enduring symbol of Jazz Age glamour and urban sophistication.

10. The Petronas Towers - Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

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Tiis was designed by Argentine architect César Pelli, the Petronas Towers held the title of the world's tallest buildings from 1998 to 2004. Located in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, their sleek design incorporates Islamic-inspired motifs and cutting-edge technology, symbolizing Malaysia's modernity and economic prosperity.

11. The Guggenheim Museum

- Bilbao, Spain

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The work of renowned architect Frank Gehry, the Guggenheim Museum opened in 1997, and is celebrated for its avant-garde design featuring undulating curves and titanium panels. It houses an extensive collection of contemporary and modern art, making it a cultural icon and revitalizing the city of Bilbao.

12. Neuschwanstein Castle

- Bavaria, Germany

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Commissioned by King Ludwig II of Bavaria in the 19th century, Neuschwanstein Castle is a fairy-tale fortress nestled in the Bavarian Alps. Its picturesque setting and romantic architecture inspired the design of Disney's Sleeping Beauty Castle, attracting millions of visitors annually.

13. Fallingwater

- Pennsylvania, USA

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Architect Frank Lloyd Wright designed Fallingwater in 1935.  It is a masterpiece of organic architecture. Perched over a waterfall in rural Pennsylvania, the house seamlessly integrates with its natural surroundings, blurring the boundaries between interior and exterior spaces.

14. The Louvre Museum

- Paris, France

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Originally a royal palace, the Louvre is now one of the world's largest and most visited art museums. Home to iconic works such as the Mona Lisa and the Venus de Milo, the Louvre's grandeur and vast collection span thousands of years of art and history.

15. St. Basil's Cathedral

- Moscow, Russia

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Located in Moscow's Red Square, St. Basil's Cathedral is an absolutely stunning example of Russian Orthodox architecture at its best. Built in the 16th century by Ivan the Terrible, its vibrant onion domes and colorful façade evoke a sense of whimsy and wonder to the eye.

16. The Palace of Versailles

- Versailles, France

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A symbol of absolute monarchy, the Palace of Versailles served as the seat of French royalty from the 17th to the 18th century. Its opulent architecture, magnificent gardens, and lavish interiors reflect the grandeur and excesses of the French monarchy.

17. The Sydney Harbour Bridge

- Sydney, Australia

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Completed in 1932, the Sydney Harbour Bridge is an iconic steel arch bridge spanning Sydney Harbour. Offering panoramic, breath taking views of the city and the harbor, it is a beloved symbol of Sydney and a feat of engineering prowess which has to be seen to be believed.

18. Angkor Wat

- Siem Reap, Cambodia

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Built in the 12th century by the Khmer Empire, Angkor Wat is the largest religious monument in the world. Its intricate carvings, towering spires, and expansive temple complex are stunning and a testament to Khmer architecture and Hindu-Buddhist cosmology.

19. The Alhambra

- Granada, Spain

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A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Alhambra is an astonishing palace and fortress complex which dates back to the 13th century. Its exquisite Islamic architecture, intricate tilework, and the lush gardens make it one of Spain's most visited attractions.

20. The Moai Statues of Easter Island

- Easter Island, Chile

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Scattered across Easter Island, the Moai statues are iconic monolithic human figures carved by the Rapa Nui people centuries ago. Their mysterious presence and enigmatic origins continue to fascinate visitors, offering insight into the island's rich cultural heritage and ancient civilization.

21. The Acropolis

- Athens, Greece

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Perched on a rocky hill overlooking Athens, the Acropolis is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the epitome of ancient Greek civilization. Its most iconic structure, the Parthenon, is dedicated to the goddess Athena and stands as a symbol of democracy, culture, and architectural perfection.

22. The Forbidden City

- Beijing, China

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Built during the Ming Dynasty, the Forbidden City served as the imperial palace for nearly 500 years. Surrounded by high walls and guarded by watchtowers, it housed emperors, their families, and their retinues. Today, its magnificent halls, pavilions, and courtyards offer a glimpse into China's imperial past.

23. Machu Picchu

- Cusco Region, Peru

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Hidden high in the Andes Mountains, Machu Picchu is a marvel of Incan engineering and spirituality. This ancient citadel, built in the 15th century and abandoned during the Spanish conquest, features intricate stone terraces, temples, and ceremonial plazas, all set against a backdrop of breath taking mountain scenery.

24. The Pantheon

- Rome, Italy

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Constructed in AD 125 by the Emperor Hadrian, the Pantheon is one of Rome's best-preserved ancient monuments. Its massive concrete dome, with an opening at the top (oculus), remains a feat of engineering marvel to this day. The Pantheon serves as a testament to Roman ingenuity and architectural genius.

25. Hagia Sophia

- Istanbul, Turkey

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Originally built as a Christian cathedral in the 6th century, Hagia Sophia later became a mosque and is now a museum. Its massive dome, towering minarets, and stunning mosaics reflect the cultural and religious transitions of Istanbul, formerly Constantinople, over the centuries.

26. The Great Pyramid of Giza

- Giza, Egypt

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The oldest and largest of the three pyramids at Giza, the Great Pyramid was built as a tomb for Pharaoh Khufu around 2560 BC. Constructed from massive limestone blocks, its sheer size and precision engineering continue to inspire wonder and speculation about ancient Egyptian civilization.

27. Taj Mahal Palace Hotel

- Mumbai, India

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Built in 1903, the Taj Mahal Palace Hotel is an architectural marvel and an emblem of Mumbai's colonial heritage. Its grandeur, elegance, and impeccable service have attracted dignitaries, celebrities, and travelers from around the world for over a century.

28. The CN Tower

- Toronto, Canada

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Standing at 1,815 feet, the CN Tower is an iconic symbol of Toronto's skyline and a marvel of modern engineering. Its observation decks offer panoramic views of the city, Lake Ontario, and even as far as the United States on a clear day, making it a must-visit attraction for locals and tourists alike.

29. The Pyramids of Teotihuacan

- Mexico City, Mexico

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Teotihuacan, meaning "the place where the gods were created," is an ancient Mesoamerican city known for its monumental pyramids and temples. The Pyramid of the Sun and the Pyramid of the Moon are the most prominent structures, reflecting the spiritual and ceremonial significance of this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

30. The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque

- Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates

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Named after the founding father of the UAE, the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is a masterpiece of Islamic architecture. Its gleaming white domes, intricate marble mosaics, and ornate calligraphy showcase the grandeur and beauty of Islamic art and culture, attracting visitors from around the world to marvel at its splendor.

31. The Statue of Liberty

- New York City, USA

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A gift from France to the United States, the Statue of Liberty has stood as a symbol of freedom and democracy since 1886. Located on Liberty Island in New York Harbor, it welcomes visitors from around the world to the shores of America and is one of the most famous landmarks in the world.

32. The Burj al Arab

- Dubai, United Arab Emirates

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Often touted as the world's only seven-star hotel, the Burj al Arab is an architectural marvel shaped like the sail of a dhow, a traditional Arabian sailing vessel. It stands on its own artificial island and is known for its luxurious amenities and iconic design.

33. The Blue Mosque (Sultan Ahmed Mosque)

- Istanbul, Turkey

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Named for its stunning blue tiles adorning the interior, the Blue Mosque is one of Istanbul's most magnificent landmarks. Completed in 1616, its six minarets and vast central dome dominate the city skyline, while its spacious courtyard offers peacefulness amidst bustling Istanbul.

34. Christ the Redeemer

- Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

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Perched atop Corcovado Mountain, the towering statue of Christ the Redeemer extends his arms in a welcoming embrace over the vibrant city of Rio de Janeiro. A symbol of Brazilian Christianity and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it offers panoramic views of Rio and its stunning natural surroundings.

35. The Shard

- London, England

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The Shard is Western Europe's tallest building, soaring 95 stories above the London skyline. Its sleek glass façade and cutting-edge design have transformed the city's skyline, offering unparalleled views of the River Thames and landmarks such as the Tower of London and St. Paul's Cathedral.

36. The Sydney Tower Eye

- Sydney, Australia

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Offering 360-degree views of Sydney and its iconic landmarks, the Sydney Tower Eye stands as the city's tallest structure. Visitors can enjoy sensational vistas from its observation deck, which also features a glass-bottomed Skywalk for the more adventurous.

37. The Great Mosque of Cordoba

- Cordoba, Spain

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A testament to Moorish architecture and Islamic Spain's cultural richness, the Great Mosque of Cordoba (Mezquita) is renowned for its horseshoe arches, intricate mosaics, and forest of columns. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a symbol of religious tolerance and coexistence.

38. The Potala Palace

- Lhasa, Tibet Autonomous Region, China

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Perched on Marpo Ri (Red Hill) in the heart of Lhasa, the Potala Palace is a towering fortress-palace that once served as the winter residence of the Dalai Lamas. Its iconic white-and-red façade and golden roofs are emblematic of Tibetan Buddhism and culture.

39. The Hagia Irene

- Istanbul, Turkey

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Situated within the outer courtyard of the Topkapi Palace, Hagia Irene is one of the oldest surviving Byzantine churches in Istanbul. Its austere beauty, impressive dome, and serene atmosphere make it a hidden gem amidst the city's historic treasures and a must for sightseers.

40. The Space Needle

- Seattle, Washington, USA

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Built for the 1962 World's Fair, the Space Needle has become an enduring symbol of Seattle. Its dynamic, futuristic design, revolving restaurant, and observation deck offer unparalleled views of the city, Puget Sound, and the Cascade and Olympic Mountains.

41. The Gherkin, London

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officially known as 30 St Mary Axe, is an iconic skyscraper located in the financial district of London, England. Designed by renowned architect Norman Foster and completed in 2003, the building quickly became one of the most recognizable landmarks in London's skyline.

42. The Great Buddha of Kamakura

- Kamakura, Japan

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Located in the coastal town of Kamakura, the Great Buddha, or Daibutsu, is a towering bronze statue of Amitābha Buddha. Cast in 1252, it stands at over 13 meters tall and is a symbol of peace and serenity in Japan. Visitors can admire its imposing presence and explore the serene surroundings of Kamakura.

43. The Kremlin

- Moscow, Russia

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The Kremlin is a famous, historic fortress and the heart of Moscow.  It encompasses palaces, cathedrals, as well as government buildings. It has served as the center of Russian power for many centuries and is an extremely popular UNESCO World Heritage Site.

44. Dancing House - Prague, Czech Republic

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The Dancing House, or Fred and Ginger Building, in Prague, Czech Republic, is an iconic architectural gem completed in 1996 by architects Vlado Milunić and Frank Gehry. Its distinctive design, resembling a dancing couple, stands out amidst Prague's historic Old Town. This modern masterpiece features fluid, curving forms and serves as a symbol of contemporary architecture in the city. Housing offices, a hotel, and a rooftop restaurant, the Dancing House offers visitors a unique experience, blending modernity with Prague's rich cultural heritage.

45. The Empire State Building

- New York City, USA

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An iconic symbol of New York City, the Empire State Building was once the tallest building in the world.  It has featured prominently in numerous films, television shows, and works of literature, solidifying its status as a cultural icon. Perhaps most famously, it served as the setting for the classic film "King Kong" in 1933!

46. The Tower of London

- London, England

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The Tower of London was founded by William the Conqueror in the late 11th century following the Norman conquest of England in 1066. Its primary purpose was to serve as a royal residence, fortress, and stronghold to protect the city of London.  It houses the Crown Jewels and has witnessed many significant events in British history.

47. The Sydney Tower Eye

- Sydney, Australia

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Offering unparalleled views of Sydney and its surroundings, the Sydney Tower Eye is the city's tallest structure. Visitors can enjoy panoramic vistas from the observation deck and experience the Skywalk, a thrilling outdoor adventure.  Visitors flock to admire the structure.

48. The Vatican City

- Vatican City

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The smallest independent state in the world, the Vatican City is the spiritual center of the Catholic Church. Home to St. Peter's Basilica, the Vatican Museums, and the Sistine Chapel, it is a treasure trove of art, history, and religious significance.

49. The Golden Gate Bridge

- San Francisco, USA

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Spanning the Golden Gate Strait, this iconic suspension bridge is a marvel of engineering and a symbol of San Francisco. Its distinctive orange color and graceful design attract millions of visitors each year.  You wouldn't leave San Francisco without visiting it.

50. The Burj Khalifa Fountain

- Dubai, United Arab Emirates

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Located at the base of the Burj Khalifa, the world's tallest building, the Burj Khalifa Fountain is the world's largest choreographed fountain system. Its mesmerizing water displays, accompanied by music and lights, create a spectacular sight for visitors in downtown Dubai.