23 jaw-dropping architectural feats from around the world

The world’s tallest building is much more than a skyscraper. The massive tower features apartments, hotels, sky decks, spas, shopping, and more. Built as a symbol of Dubai’s reconstruction into a modern city of the future, it is unlike anything else built today.

The former headquarters of the Dutch insurance company that bankrolled the design and construction, the building is meant to resemble its name, a pair of dancers. Today, it serves as a multipurpose structure and a fun photo opp for visitors. 

Ancient civilizations were no less sophisticated in their construction. Today, visitors can only reach this wonder via a multi-day hike, which must be booked in advance as the number of participants is limited per day.

Going back much further in time, it’s hard to believe these were built before modern technology. Not far outside of sprawling Cairo, the pyramids are a must-visit on any Egyptian trip.

France’s most famous landmark is a lesson in how quickly public opinion can be swayed. First constructed as the entrance to the 1889 World’s Fair, some Parisians initially thought the Tour d’Eiffel (named after the architectural firm that designed it) quite ugly. However, eventually residents became accustomed to its site and now it draws millions of admirers each year.

This massive complex housed Chinese royalty for centuries. The former political center is a huge 178-acre area with over 900 buildings. Additionally, numerous gardens and temples surrounded it, giving the entire area a never-ending appearance.

Perhaps the most famous opera house in the world, this Australian icon is a central piece of Sydney’s landscape. The Danish architect Jørn Utzon designed the building and reportedly was not pleased with its appearance after completion.

Perhaps one of the most famous relics in the world, the Colosseum needs no introduction. The massive amphitheater was the entertainment hub of the Roman Empire and is the largest remaining structure of its time period.

Visitors travel from far and wide to marvel at the world’s largest religious complex. The archaeological site is a UNESCO World Heritage site and dates back to the 9th century. It is also frequently cited as one of the most beautiful places to watch the sunrise in the world.

Austria’s second-largest city is renowned as a design hub, making it impossible to choose a single building or creation to spotlight. The entire colorful Old Town is a UNESCO site; don’t miss the unique double spiral staircase located outside of it, or the clock tower atop the castle hill. Other notable modern architectural feats include the Kunsthalle Graz (art museum), affectionately known as “the Friendly Alien,” and the Murensil floating café on the River Mur.

There’s a reason “Taj Mahal” is a cultural reference for anything amazing and over-the-top. The white marbled mausoleum attracts people from around the world with its jaw-dropping appearance and grandeur.

One of the most famous photos tourists can take in Italy is in Pisa. You’ve likely encountered numerous social media snaps of people incorporating Italy’s most famous building in silly and creative ways.

The largest military feat ever built (the Wall was originally meant to be a fortification for the Qing Dynasty), it stretches 13,171 miles. It spans provinces and can be visited from a few points in China, the most popular being a day trip from Beijing. More experienced hikers can tackle more technical sections, and a guide is recommended. 

Northern Europe’s largest Gothic cathedral, the structure has a long history. Efforts to build the enormous cathedral began in 1248 and underwent numerous start-and-stop attempts over the centuries before being completed in 1880.

Shaped like a lotus flower, this temple is for the Baháʼí faith. Despite it being a place of worship, all are welcome to visit this amazing building.

Canada’s most famous hotel is actually part of a chain. The Canadian Pacific Railway built ornate hotels across the country in an effort to promote tourism. However, Quebec City is the most well-known as it blends perfectly into Old Quebec’s European appearance. 

Casablanca isn’t the most interesting destination in Morocco, but if there’s one site you must check out before moving on elsewhere, it’s the Hassan II Mosque. It is stunning beyond words, and the only mosque in the city that non-Muslims are permitted to visit.

Gaudí’s city has no shortage of wonderful designs by the architect. However, there’s something special about this stone creation, which is built to resemble a functional art piece.

These unbelievable churches (eleven to be exact) were all carved from a single rock. No other materials were used in construction, which took place between the 7th and 13th centuries, according to the best estimates. They are certainly a “see to be believed” masterpiece. 

The Icelandic capital’s modern art museum is located in a piece of art itself. Built out of glass panels of various colors, it’s open to interpretation. I think it looks like fish scales. Inside, you can enjoy rotating exhibits as well as performances, a library, restaurant, and movie theater. 

One of Istanbul’s best-known landmarks, the Hagia Sophia was initially constructed as a church in the 6th century. The mid-1400s saw it converted into a mosque, which it remains today. Although visitors are welcome, it is essential to pay attention to the hours, as they vary for non-worshipers.

The city to which this pyramid is central has mysterious origins, but today it is a favorite landmark in Mexico. It is believed to have pre-dated the Aztecs and is one of the largest pyramids in the world.

Harrison Ford's Indiana Jones might have popularized this ancient wonder, but travelers from around the globe have been visiting for decades. Don't just stop at the treasury, though, spend a day or two hiking through all the mesmerizing dwellings.