Famous Landmarks Around the World
Discover the stories behind the world's most recognizable structures
The Great Wall of China
The Great Wall of China is an ancient series of walls and fortifications located in northern China. It was built to protect the Chinese states from invasions by nomadic tribes. Construction began as early as the 7th century BC, and it was continually rebuilt and expanded until the 16th century.
Interesting Facts:
- The wall stretches approximately 13,170 miles (21,196 kilometers).
- It is not a single continuous wall but rather a collection of walls built by various dynasties.
- The wall can be seen from space, although this myth is somewhat exaggerated.
The Eiffel Tower
Located in Paris, France, the Eiffel Tower was completed in 1889 as the entrance arch to the 1889 World's Fair. It was designed by the engineer Gustave Eiffel and stood as the tallest man-made structure in the world until the Chrysler Building was completed in New York in 1930.
Interesting Facts:
- The Eiffel Tower is painted every seven years to protect it from rust.
- It is made up of around 18,038 individual iron parts, held together by 2.5 million rivets.
- The tower sways slightly in the wind and can be up to 15 cm taller in summer due to thermal expansion of the iron.
Machu Picchu
Hidden high in the Andes Mountains of Peru, Machu Picchu is a 15th-century Incan citadel known for its sophisticated dry-stone construction that fuses with the surrounding landscape. It was brought to international attention by American historian Hiram Bingham in 1911 and remains one of the most significant archaeological sites in the world.
Interesting Facts:
- Machu Picchu is often referred to as the "Lost City of the Incas."
- In 1983, it was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- The site has about 200 structures, including temples, terraces, and plazas, demonstrating the advanced engineering of the Inca civilization.
The Colosseum
Located in the heart of Rome, Italy, the Colosseum is an ancient amphitheater that was commissioned in AD 72 by Emperor Vespasian. It was used for gladiatorial contests and public spectacles, such as animal hunts, mock sea battles, and executions. It remains one of the most iconic symbols of Ancient Rome.
Interesting Facts:
- The Colosseum could hold up to 80,000 spectators at a time.
- It was originally referred to as the Flavian Amphitheater.
- The structure is made from travertine limestone, tuff, and brick-faced concrete.