When traveling the world, it’s always exciting to discover historical buildings and landmarks that have stood the test of time and survived through centuries of history. These architectural wonders are not only beautiful to behold, but they also tell the stories of our ancestors and the cultures that shaped our world.
From the majestic pyramids of Egypt to the intricate temples of Southeast Asia, these 16 famous buildings are a testament to the creativity and ingenuity of human civilization. So grab your check list and fill it with a must see objects of our world’s rich history (Please note that the list is made in random order).
1. Great Wall of China – China
The Great Wall of China is one of the most famous historical buildings in the world. The wall stretches over 13,000 miles across China and is a testament to the incredible engineering skills of the ancient Chinese. This massive structure was built to protect China from invading armies and remains a symbol of the country’s rich history and culture.
2. Taj Mahal – India
The Taj Mahal is a stunning mausoleum located in Agra, India. Built in the 17th century by the Mughal emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his beloved wife, the Taj Mahal is known for its beautiful white marble and intricate carvings. It is considered one of the most beautiful buildings in the world and attracts millions of visitors every year.
3. Petra – Jordan
Petra is an ancient city located in Jordan that dates back to the 1st century BC. Known for its impressive rock-cut architecture and unique water management system, Petra was once a thriving trading hub in the Middle East. The most famous building in Petra is the Treasury, which is carved into a cliff and is a must-visit for any traveler to Jordan.
4. Machu Picchu – Peru
Machu Picchu is an incredible ancient city located in the Andes Mountains of Peru. Built by the Incas in the 15th century, this magnificent city is known for its stunning architecture and intricate stonework. Machu Picchu is considered one of the most impressive historical buildings in the world and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
5. Colosseum – Italy
The Colosseum is one of the most iconic landmarks in Italy. This massive amphitheater was built in the 1st century AD and was used for gladiatorial contests and public spectacles. Today, the Colosseum is a popular tourist attraction and a testament to the incredible engineering skills of the ancient Romans.
6. Angkor Wat – Cambodia
Angkor Wat is a stunning temple complex located in Cambodia. Built in the 12th century by the Khmer Empire, Angkor Wat is known for its beautiful architecture and intricate carvings. It is considered one of the most important archaeological sites in Southeast Asia and attracts visitors from all over the world.
7. Hagia Sophia – Turkey
The Hagia Sophia is an iconic building located in Istanbul, Turkey. Originally built as a church in the 6th century, it later became a mosque and is now a museum. The Hagia Sophia is known for its stunning architecture, including its massive dome and intricate mosaics, and is a must-visit for any traveler to Istanbul.
8. Pyramids of Giza – Egypt
The Pyramids of Giza are perhaps the most famous historical buildings in the world. These massive structures were built more than 4,500 years ago and are a testament to the incredible engineering skills of the ancient Egyptians. The Great Pyramid of Giza is the largest and most impressive of the three pyramids and is a must-visit for any traveler to Egypt.
9. Chichen Itza – Mexico
Chichen Itza is an ancient city located in the Yucatan Peninsula of Mexico. Built by the Maya civilization in the 6th century, Chichen Itza is known for its impressive architecture and unique astronomical calendar. The most famous building in Chichen Itza is the Temple of Kukulcan, also known as El Castillo, which is a pyramid-shaped temple that was used for astronomical observations and ceremonies. The temple is an incredible example of Maya architecture and attracts visitors from all over the world.
10. The Parthenon – Greece
The Parthenon is an iconic building located in Athens, Greece. Built in the 5th century BC as a temple to the goddess Athena, the Parthenon is known for its impressive architecture and intricate sculptures. It is a symbol of ancient Greek civilization and attracts millions of visitors every year.
11. Alhambra – Spain
The Alhambra is a stunning palace and fortress complex located in Granada, Spain. Built by the Moors in the 13th century, the Alhambra is known for its beautiful architecture and intricate tile work. It is considered one of the most important historical buildings in Spain and attracts visitors from all over the world.
12. The Pantheon – Italy
The Pantheon is an ancient temple located in Rome, Italy. Built in the 2nd century AD, the Pantheon is known for its impressive dome and beautiful marble decorations. It is one of the best-preserved ancient buildings in Rome and is a must-visit for any traveler to Italy.
13. Stonehenge, England
Stonehenge is a prehistoric monument located in Wiltshire, England, and is one of the most famous landmarks in the UK. It is believed to have been built around 3000 BC and consists of a ring of standing stones, some weighing over 25 tons, arranged in a circle. The purpose of Stonehenge remains a mystery, with many theories ranging from it being a burial ground to a place of healing or a site for astronomical observation. Despite its enigmatic origins, Stonehenge continues to be a popular attraction for visitors from around the world, and its impressive stone structures serve as a reminder of the ancient civilizations that once roamed the earth.
14. Easter Island
The Easter Island statues, also known as Moai, are a group of over 800 large stone figures located on Easter Island, a Chilean territory in the southeastern Pacific Ocean. The statues were created by the Rapa Nui people between the 13th and 16th centuries, and are believed to represent deceased ancestors or powerful tribal chiefs. Each statue is unique, but all share a distinctive style characterized by a long face with heavy brows, prominent nose, and elongated ears. The largest statue is over 33 feet tall and weighs around 80 tons. Today, the Easter Island statues continue to be a mystery, with their construction and transportation across the island remaining a subject of fascination and debate for archaeologists and visitors alike.
15. Ayutthaya, Thailand
Ayutthaya, also known as Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya, is a historical city located in central Thailand, approximately 80 kilometers north of Bangkok. The city was founded in 1350 and served as the capital of the Kingdom of Siam for over 400 years. During this time, Ayutthaya became a major center of trade and culture, with a population that exceeded one million people at its peak. The city is characterized by its impressive ruins, including temples, palaces, and ancient fortifications, all of which offer a glimpse into the grandeur and sophistication of this former capital. Today, Ayutthaya is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a popular tourist destination, attracting visitors from all over the world who come to marvel at its fascinating history and unique blend of cultures.
16. Bagan, Myanmar
Bagan is an ancient city located in the Mandalay region of Myanmar, formerly known as Burma. It was the capital of the Pagan Kingdom from the 9th to the 13th centuries, and is home to over 2,000 temples, pagodas, and other religious structures. The city’s temples are characterized by their intricate carvings, colorful murals, and unique architectural styles, making them some of the most stunning examples of Burmese art and architecture. The most famous temples include Ananda Temple, Shwezigon Pagoda, and Dhammayangyi Temple. The city of Bagan is also known for its stunning sunrises and sunsets, which can be viewed from atop the temples, offering visitors a breathtaking view of the surrounding landscape. Despite being damaged by earthquakes and other natural disasters over the years, Bagan remains an important center of religious and cultural heritage, attracting visitors from around the world who come to marvel at its unique beauty and history.
Visiting historic buildings and landmarks is a fascinating way to learn about the past and appreciate the artistry and ingenuity of previous generations. From pyramids of Giza to Machu Picchu ancient city, these magical structures represent some of humanity’s greatest achievements and offer a window into the evolution of architecture, engineering, and culture. Whether you’re a history buff, an architecture enthusiast, or simply someone who appreciates beauty and wonder, these historic buildings are well worth visiting. Each one has a story to tell, and each one offers a unique and unforgettable experience that will stay with you long after your trip is over. So, pack your bags and embark on a journey through time and space, and discover the magic and mystery of some of the world’s most iconic and historic buildings.
