Well-built buildings last for many years; humans, however, are mortal. Architecture, then, is a gift from the living to the unborn.- Giovanni Michelotti
This quote perfectly summarises the importance of architecture in understanding the lives of our ancestors. Don’t you see some of the best historic architectural marvels in the world and wonder how our ancestors made these humongous monuments? Well, commitment and sheer will is what made it possible. Architecture is the language that stands the test of time and acts as a means of communication to the younger or, better yet, unborn generation of humans. In this blog, we will take a look at some of the world’s best historic architectural marvels.
Top Historic Architecture Marvels In The World
Architecture has been around for tens of thousands of years, from the time of the very first settlement in the dank river valleys of Mesopotamia and the Indus Valley. It’s worth mentioning that all of the monuments mentioned in this list are based on our opinion and do not reflect the opinion of the masses. Also, the list is not ranked in any particular order. So, just sit back, relax and enjoy the historic architectural marvels of the human race.
The Stonehenge
To unfamiliar eyes, Stonehenge is a mere collection of stones placed on top of each other. However, this masterpiece is nothing short of a historic architectural marvel. The precision through which these stones were placed makes it one of the best historical monuments in the world. However, the purpose of this monument is still unknown. Although scientists cannot date it back exactly to its era, as stone cannot be carbon-dated, many experts believe that the structure was made around 4,000 to 5,000 years ago.
Great Pyramid Of Giza
One of the 7 wonders of the world, the Great Pyramid of Giza is one of the world’s best historic architectural marvels, which deserves a spot on our list. Again, the origin of the monument is shrouded in mystery. However, the most common story behind the monument is that it was built as the resting place of Pharaoh Khufu. The architecture of this place is a testament to the precision architecture of our ancestors. It might come as a surprise to many, but the Great Pyramid of Giza is taller than the Statue of Liberty, the Big Ben and the Leaning Tower of Pisa.
Taj Mahal
Located on the banks of the Yamuna River in Agra, India, the Taj Mahal is one of the most beautiful historic architectural marvels in the world. Made as a resting place of Mughal emperor Shah Jahan and his beloved, Mumtaz, the Taj Mahal is celebrated as the symbol of love in the entire world. Designed by the Mughal court architect Isa Khan, the Taj Mahal takes inspiration from Turkish and native Indian architecture. According to various sources, completing the masterpiece took over 20,000 workers and over 22 years. The Taj Mahal is among the top places to visit in India for tourists.
Great Wall Of China
The emperor of the Qin dynasty, Qin Shi Huang, was the first emperor to unify China in the 2nd century BC. At that time, the biggest threat to China was the Mongol empire, and to defend the country against the Mongolians, the Qin dynasty started building the Great Wall of China. Spanning a whopping 20,000 kilometres, the Great Wall of China was built from the 2nd century BC to the late 1600s. This makes it one of the best historic architectural marvels in the world. The Great Wall of China is also a UNESCO Heritage Site and is visited by hundreds of thousands of people every year.
The Colosseum
The Roman Empire was known for its futuristic society. However, one thing that people usually forget is the architectural prowess of the Romans. Built in the 80AD, this 159 ft tall building is one of the last standing amphitheatre of the Roman empire and it was capable of hosting 50,000 to 80,000 people at once. The architecture of this place showcases the wisdom and knack for details that the Romans had. Although an earthquake proved fatal for the monument, one of its parts succumbed to it, making it an incomplete yet beautiful historic architectural marvel.
Kukulkan Pyramid, Chichen Itza
Located in the Mayan city of Chichen Itza, this monument was a cultural and educational hub in the Mayan civilisation. The Mayans were known for their science and astronomy, but most of us forget that they were prolific architects. Built somewhere around the 8th-12th century BCE, the Kukulkan Pyramid is commonly known as El Castillo due to its castle-like appearance. It is one of the most beautiful historic architectural marvels in the world and showcases the culture and history of the Mayans.
Angkor Wat
Located in Cambodia, this temple complex is the largest religious infrastructure in the world. Built during the Khmer Dynasty in the 12th century AD, this temple complex was dedicated to Hindu gods and goddesses. The architecture, too, is very much inspired by India itself. You can find idols of various gods and serpents, also known as Nagas in Hinduism. This historic architectural marvel is truly one of a kind and deserves a spot on our list. It serves as a window into the Khmer Empire’s religious beliefs and artistic achievements. Its enduring legacy continues to inspire architects, archaeologists, and travellers worldwide.
Visit These Places And Witness the Mind-Blowing Architecture
Historic architectural marvels are nothing short of a ride through the minds of our ancestors. They teach us about their history, culture, and religion, which helps us connect with them. These monuments prove that we give much less credit to our ancestors than we really should. Who knows if we could build stadiums today without the Colosseum being an example or make protective walls without the Great Wall of China being an example? We owe a lot to our ancestors, maybe more than we will ever know.
FAQs
Which is the most visited tourist site in the world?
The Colosseum is in Rome, Italy, and is the most visited tourist place in the world.
Which country has the largest tourist footfalls annually?
With 79.4 million tourists annually, France has the highest tourist footfall in the world.
which is the best time to visit the pyramids of Giza?
The ideal time to visit the Pyramids Of Gize is between November and February, as by this time, the heat simmers down.
what is the meaning of El Castillo?
Due to its shape, the Kukulkan is known as El Castillo, which translates to ‘The Castle’.
How long did the Khmer dynasty rule in Cambodia?
The Khmer Dynasty lasted from 802 to 1431