These ten iconic landmarks span the globe and represent some of the most impressive achievements in architecture, engineering and culture. From the Great Wall of China to the Burj Khalifa in Dubai, these landmarks have inspired awe in visitors for centuries. The Eiffel Tower in Paris, The Statue of Liberty in New York and The Sydney Opera House are each symbolic of their home countries, and The Colosseum in Rome provides a glimpse into the ingenuity of ancient architecture. The Taj Mahal in India, The Great Sphinx of Giza in Egypt and The Petra Treasury in Jordan each incorporate elements of intricate design and spirituality, while Machu Picchu in Peru reveals a stunning architectural feat that remains shrouded in mystery.
1. The Great Wall of China
The Great Wall of China is one of the most famous landmarks in the world. This wall stretches over 13,000 miles across the northern part of China. It is said that the wall was built during the Ming Dynasty to protect China from invaders. It is now considered a symbol of China’s rich history and one of the Seven Wonders of the Medieval World.
2. The Eiffel Tower
The Eiffel Tower is one of the most recognizable landmarks in the world. This tower is located in Paris, France and stands at 1,063 feet tall. It was built in 1889 and was originally intended to only remain standing for 20 years, but it has remained a popular attraction for over a century.
3. The Statue of Liberty
The Statue of Liberty is a symbol of freedom and democracy. This iconic statue stands on Liberty Island in New York Harbor and is one of the most visited tourist attractions in the United States. The statue was a gift from France to the United States in 1886 and is now considered a symbol of American freedom.
4. The Taj Mahal
The Taj Mahal is one of the most famous landmarks in India. This mausoleum was built by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his beloved wife Mumtaz Mahal. The Taj Mahal is considered one of the greatest examples of Mughal architecture and was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1983.
5. The Colosseum
The Colosseum is an iconic landmark in Rome, Italy. This ancient amphitheater was built in 70 AD and was used for gladiatorial contests and public spectacles. It is considered one of the greatest examples of Roman engineering and continues to be a popular tourist attraction today.
6. The Great Sphinx of Giza
The Great Sphinx of Giza is one of the most famous monuments in Egypt. This statue depicts a mythical creature with the body of a lion and the head of a human. The Great Sphinx is believed to have been built during the reign of Pharaoh Khafre in the 26th century BC and is now a popular attraction for tourists.
7. The Petra Treasury
The Petra Treasury is an iconic landmark in Jordan. This ancient temple was carved into the rock face by the Nabataeans in the 1st century AD. It is considered one of the Seven New Wonders of the World and has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
8. The Sydney Opera House
The Sydney Opera House is an iconic landmark in Australia. This 20th century building was designed by Danish architect Jørn Utzon and is one of the most recognizable cultural centers in the world. The Sydney Opera House has become a symbol of Sydney and is a popular tourist attraction.
9. The Machu Picchu
The Machu Picchu is an ancient citadel located in Peru. This Incan city was built in the 15th century and was abandoned during the Spanish conquest. It was rediscovered in 1911 and is now considered one of the most impressive archaeological sites in the world.
10. The Burj Khalifa
The Burj Khalifa is the tallest building in the world. This skyscraper is located in Dubai, United Arab Emirates and stands at 2,717 feet tall. The Burj Khalifa was opened in 2010 and is now one of the most iconic landmarks in the world. It is also home to the world’s highest observation deck, located on the 148th floor.