Architecture is an important part of human vision and creativity; each building has its own story and inspiration. Many cities have become famous because of their magnificent architectural masterpieces, and people from every corner of the globe visit them to enjoy the splendid creativity of the architects who built them. If you are taking an architecture course and planning to take a trip somewhere to unwind from tough schoolwork that may make you rely on custom essay services to complete them, consider visiting the following architectural masterpieces.
Sagrada Familia
Architect Antoni Gaudi, well-known in Spain for his magnificent designs, is the brains behind the stunning structure. It is a remarkable church with a distinctive Gothic design. Its ongoing construction, which will not be completed until 2026, adds to its exquisiteness. When you're in Barcelona, make time to stop by and admire the striking Gothic architecture.
The Shard
The Shard is a unique architecture due to its height and variety of functions. People can work, relax, and live in this vertical city. It harbors world-class offices, award-winning restaurants, and prestigious residences. Besides, it encompasses elements of environmental sustainability. For instance, it's constructed with glass panels, providing natural light and minimizing artificial lighting. It also has a combined heat and power plant that operates on natural gas. Another fascinating feature of this marvelous structure is its double-decker elevators. They were brilliantly incorporated into the building and brought out the artistry of this work of art.
Taj Mahal
This ancient building dates back to between 1631 and 1653 and is among the best specimens of Mughal art. It was originally constructed as a mausoleum by Shah Jahan in memory of his beloved wife. The building has a dome that stands 240 feet high, which easily captures the attention of any onlooker. Moreover, the structure has some architectural and cultural value, leading to its designation as a Heritage Site.
Sydney Opera House
This building is one of the most recognizable structures of the 20th century. The idea to create it was motivated by the need to place Australia on the global cultural map. The building is a good example of expressionist architecture. The roof structure is probably the most striking feature and has a series of shell-like forms. Its exterior has glossy, creamy tiles, making it attractive from afar.
Leaning Tower of Pisa
The tower has a tilt caused by the construction on the soft ground. The foundation was weak, and this kept causing the building to lean. Estimates reveal that the tower will fall after 75 years, but this should not deter you from visiting the tower because it is one of the most interesting stories. It served as a military establishment during the Second World War, and its construction lasted ащкover three centuries.
Fallingwater
The building was designed by the architect Frank Lloyd and has been described as a blend between nature and humankind. Construction began in 1935; however, something that makes the building quite unique is the fact that it is built on a waterfall. It has a cantilevered structure with the balconies overhanging the waterfall. During the construction of the building, Lloyd employed natural materials, depicting his commitment to nature.
Eiffel Tower
The tower is a famous iron lattice that is 330 meters tall. The tower was once the tallest human-made structure, and it is famous for attracting people who want to make marriage proposals. It was initially constructed to serve as the entrance to the 1889 World Fair, but its beauty has made it a leading tourist destination.
Neuschwanstein Castle
The building is among the most photographed buildings worldwide, and its architectural design plays an integral role in this. The architectural style contains a mixture of elements from Medieval and Gothic revival. Local limestone was used in its construction, giving it a white façade that stands out from the Bavarian Alps.
Parthenon
The building is a temple dedicated to Athena, a Greek goddess. The temple is ancient, and its construction started in 447 BCE. Though the building has suffered some damage over time, including the loss of some of the sculptures, the building's basic structure is still intact.
Colosseum
The Colosseum is an amphitheater located in the middle of Rome. Up to date, it is considered the greatest architectural achievement by the Romans. It could host up to 50000 people and was the venue for the famous Roman gladiator games. The design of the amphitheater has influenced many modern-day construction projects.
Burj Khalifa
Burj Khalifa is currently the tallest structure worldwide. It takes the shape of a spiraling design. A lot of science went into the construction of the building to ensure it is safe and sustainable at its height. The floor plan is Y-shaped, allowing guests to have a clear view of the surroundings, including the Persian Gulf.
Forbidden City
The city was the residence of the Ming dynasty emperors and was established in 1406 CE. Some of the most exquisite features of Chinese culture can be seen in the city. Formerly, it has been the residence of 24 Chinese emperors and has 980 buildings. This large site will enable you to get a good feel of what Chinese architecture is all about.
Empire State Building
The structure is arguably one of the most identifiable sights in New York right now. Its construction was completed in a year, which is unusual for structures this tall. Put up during the Great Depression; it continues to be one of the most iconic depictions of the American dream today. It encapsulates the idea that someone can overcome the typical obstacles they may encounter in life and succeed in the process.
Take-Home Point
To understand the trends in architecture, one must be knowledgeable about both modern and historical architecture. Therefore, you should visit famous buildings to gain a basic understanding of the various architectural designs. The buildings above are examples of traditional and modern architectural artworks that will pique your curiosity and inspire amazing works.
