Architecture has the power to shape history. It can capture an era, tell a story, and even define a culture. From ancient times to the modern-day, there have been numerous iconic buildings that have become defining landmarks in architectural history.
NTF Architecture in Melbourne has made its mark on the city’s architectural history through the team’s unique approach to design, which focuses on creating timeless works that are both functional and aesthetically pleasing for generations to come.
As for age-old buildings that are firmly cemented in world history, here are some of the most famous, awe-inspiring buildings from around the world that have changed architecture forever.
Parthenon (Greece)
The Parthenon is a temple on the Athenian Acropolis in Greece, and is considered one of the greatest examples of Ancient Greek architecture. Built between 447 and 432 BC as an expression of power and wealth, this historic site was designed with perfect symmetry and proportion while also featuring many ornamental sculptures representing gods and goddesses of Greek mythology.
Taj Mahal (India)
This immense mausoleum located in Agra, India is one of the most recognisable landmarks in the world. Completed in 1648 by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan as a memorial for his favourite wife Mumtaz Mahal, this white marble structure is symmetrically aligned with four minarets at each corner and intricate decorative carvings adorning its walls.
Colosseum (Rome)
The Colosseum is one of Rome’s most iconic landmarks and was built as a gift from Emperor Vespasian to celebrate his rule over Rome between 70-72 AD. This majestic amphitheatre seated 50,000 people who were able to watch gladiator battles or other public spectacles, using its remarkable engineering feat consisting of 80 external arches with multiple tiers of seating surrounding its centre arena.
Notre Dame Cathedral (France)
This incredible cathedral located in Paris was built between 1163-1345 during Medieval times to serve as a religious site for worshipers throughout France. Its impressive Gothic architecture showcases elaborate stone carvings along its walls, while its two towers rise above Paris’ skyline; making it one of the city’s most recognisable landmarks even today.
Hagia Sophia (Turkey)
Originally built as an Eastern Orthodox church in 537 AD, this Istanbul landmark has been through many incarnations over its long history. It served as an imperial mosque for more than 500 years before being converted into a museum in 1935. With its massive dome ceilings and intricate mosaics adorning its walls, it’s no wonder why this building has stood the test of time!
Sydney Opera House (Australia)
The Sydney Opera House is perhaps Australia’s most famous structure due to its unique design. It was designed by Danish architect Jørn Utzon and completed in 1973 after 16 years of construction! Its sail-like roof makes it instantly recognisable around the world.
Petronas Towers (Malaysia)
These twin towers located in Kuala Lumpur were once among the tallest buildings on Earth when they were completed back in 1998 – and they still remain some of Asia’s tallest skyscrapers today. They are connected by an overhead bridge at their 41st floor, which serves as a popular tourist attraction year-round.
Great Pyramid of Giza (Egypt)
This ancient pyramid is believed to have been constructed around 2560 BC as part of a complex system used for Pharaoh Khufu’s burial chamber – it is also considered one of the Seven Wonders of the World. Even to this day, its perfectly angled sides remain perfectly intact despite centuries’ worth of wear and tear!
Big Ben (England)
Located within London’s Palace of Westminster complex, Big Ben is perhaps England’s most recognisable landmark. Its clock tower was designed by Augustus Pugin back in 1859, and its bells can be heard throughout London on each hour!
These iconic buildings represent just some examples of how architecture has shaped history throughout centuries past and present day alike
Th awe-inspiring architecture of these grand designs demonstrates how it can influence our cultures by telling stories through interconnected components such as symmetry, perspective, ornamentation, scale, proportionality and more. It’s clear why these nine buildings will always remain part of our architectural history books!
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